"I think what some people are doing with effects is starting to get silly. It's overused"

Richard Donner, a renowned filmmaker known for his deal with renowned motion pictures like "Superman" and the "Lethal Weapon" series, expressed issue about the overuse of special effects in filmmaking with his statement: "I think what some individuals are doing with results is beginning to get silly. It's overused". This quote reflects Donner's point of view on a trend he observed in the movie industry, most likely throughout or after his active years as a director.

Donner's profession started throughout a time when practical effects and storytelling were critical, and the innovation available to filmmakers was far less advanced than what we have today. His remark might be rooted in a sense of nostalgia for a period when filmmakers relied more greatly on practical effects, narrative depth, character development, and ingenious recording techniques to engage audiences. Donner may be recommending that instead of improving the story, excessive reliance on special results can detract from it, making films feel less genuine or less grounded in reality.

The phrase "starting to get ridiculous" suggests that Donner believed using impacts had crossed a limit, moving from a tool that augments storytelling to one that may eclipse it. By calling the use of impacts "overused", he indicates that filmmakers might prioritize visual spectacle over substantive content, potentially causing a lack of balance and lessening the total effect of the film. His remark invites filmmakers and audiences alike to reflect on what really makes a motion picture resonate and withstand: compelling storytelling, strong characters, and emotional engagement.

In essence, Donner's declaration serves as a cautionary observation, advising filmmakers to be more discerning and intentional in their usage of special impacts. By doing so, they can ensure that the essence of cinematic storytelling is not lost in the pursuit of technological advancements or visual grandeur. This thoughtful approach can help preserve the integrity and impact of movies in an age increasingly dominated by digital impacts.