"I was always cutting dialogue out when we were rehearsing, and when I produced movies, too. I felt that people don't say things in life - they act, they do things. I always wanted my characters doing, rather than saying what they were doing - which was redundant"

Donna Mills's quote stresses the value of action over discussion in storytelling, especially in movie. Her perspective highlights a basic principle in visual storytelling: revealing instead of telling. By specifying that she typically cut discussion during rehearsals and movie production, Mills suggests that she focused on visual storytelling and physical actions to convey character intentions and feelings. This approach lines up with a common filmmaking expression: "program, don't tell."

In life, individuals typically express themselves through actions rather than words. Facial expressions, body language, and choices all convey significant info about a person's thoughts, sensations, and intents. Mills's insight shows a desire to mirror this natural human habits in her characters. By focusing on what characters do, rather than what they say, Mills enhances the authenticity and engagement of the narrative.

The redundancy Mills discusses refers to the concept that explicitly specifying what one is doing or feeling can often weaken the audience's engagement and the story's immersion. When characters verbalize their actions or emotions, it can make the narrative feel contrived or less believable. By relying on the audience to interpret actions and infer meaning, Mills respects the viewers' intelligence and motivates them to be active participants in the storytelling process.

Moreover, this philosophy highlights a more vibrant and appealing style of filmmaking. Actions can produce stress, drive stories forward, and deepen character development in ways dialogue often can not. It challenges writers, directors, and stars to interact intricate concepts succinctly and strongly without relying on words. In the world of visual media, where images can be even more potent than words, Mills's approach underscores how impactful and memorable storytelling can be achieved through the art of revealing rather than informing.