Ava DuVernay Quotes to Inspire and Empower | Wisdom from the Acclaimed Filmmaker and Activist

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Have you ever heard of Ava DuVernay? If not, you're missing out on a talented filmmaker, producer, and writer who has been making waves in Hollywood for years. The queen of storytelling has taken the industry by storm with her incredible talent, and she's also known for her inspiring quotes that are sure to motivate anyone who hears them.

One of DuVernay's most famous quotes is: If your dream only includes you, it's too small. This quote speaks volumes about the importance of community and collaboration. After all, no one can achieve great things alone. We need others to help us along the way, and this quote reminds us of that fact.

Another quote that stands out is: When you're in a position to be written about, you have a responsibility to tell the truth. As someone who has worked in the media industry, this quote resonates with me deeply. It's important to remember that our words and actions have an impact on others, and we should always strive for honesty and integrity in everything we do.

DuVernay's work often centers around themes of race and social justice. Her quote, There's not an inherent blackness or whiteness to the way you tell a story, speaks directly to this. It's a reminder that stories can and should be told from diverse perspectives, and that there is no one right way to tell them.

As someone who started out as a publicist before transitioning into filmmaking, DuVernay knows a thing or two about perseverance. Her quote, It's not about working harder, it's about working smarter, is a great reminder that sometimes we need to take a step back and reassess the way we're approaching our goals.

Speaking of perseverance, DuVernay's quote, Your dreams are on the other side of your grit, your tenacity, is a great reminder that success doesn't come easy. It takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness to push through even when things get tough.

Perhaps one of DuVernay's most powerful quotes is: The beauty of what I do is that it's not about me. This quote is a great reminder that our work should always be about something bigger than ourselves. Whether it's creating art that inspires others or fighting for social justice, our actions should always be driven by a desire to make the world a better place.

DuVernay is also known for her work as an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. Her quote, Diversity is being invited to the party. Inclusion is being asked to dance, is a powerful reminder that representation matters. It's not enough to simply have diverse voices in the room – they need to be heard and valued as well.

Another quote that speaks to DuVernay's advocacy work is: We're not just trying to change Hollywood. We're trying to change the world. This quote is a great reminder that the fight for diversity and inclusion isn't just about entertainment – it's about creating a more equitable and just society for everyone.

Finally, DuVernay's quote, I'm interested in making work that moves the needle, is a great encapsulation of her philosophy as a filmmaker. Her work has always been about more than just entertainment – it's about using art to spark meaningful conversations and effect real change.

In conclusion, Ava DuVernay is a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry. Her inspiring quotes are a testament to her talent and her commitment to making the world a better place. Whether you're a filmmaker, writer, or just someone looking for some motivation, DuVernay's words are sure to inspire and uplift you.


Introduction

Ava Duvernay is an American filmmaker who has made a significant impact on Hollywood with her unconventional approach to filmmaking. Her work has been praised for its authenticity and her ability to bring out the best in her actors. Ava Duvernay quotes are a reflection of her unique perspective on life, love, and the human experience. In this article, we will take a look at some of her best quotes that are sure to make you laugh and inspire you.

On Filmmaking

I always say that making a film is like a marathon, but it's a marathon where you're not allowed to train.

Filmmaking is not for the faint of heart. It requires a tremendous amount of dedication, hard work, and creativity. According to Ava, making a movie is like running a marathon without any preparation. You have to be mentally and physically ready for the long haul, but even then, there are no guarantees of success. The only thing you can do is give it your all and hope for the best.

Filmmaking is a team sport, and you're only as good as your weakest player.

Ava understands that filmmaking is not a one-person show. It takes a team of skilled professionals to bring a project to life. From the actors to the cinematographer to the sound designer, everyone plays a crucial role in creating a compelling film. If one person drops the ball, it can have a ripple effect on the entire production. That's why it's essential to surround yourself with talented people who share your vision and work well together.

On Diversity

Diversity is not a trend; it's just reality. We live in a diverse world, and our art should reflect that.

Ava is a strong advocate for diversity in Hollywood. She believes that representation matters and that films should reflect the diverse world we live in. Diversity is not a trend that will come and go; it's a reality that we all need to embrace. When we tell stories that include diverse perspectives, we create a more inclusive and compassionate society.

When you're the only one in the room who looks like you, it can be challenging to speak up. But it's essential to do so because your voice matters.

As a woman of color in a predominantly white male industry, Ava understands the challenges of speaking up and being heard. But she also knows that her voice is essential and that she has a unique perspective to offer. It's important to speak up, even when it's uncomfortable, because your thoughts and ideas matter.

On Love and Relationships

Love is not a feeling; it's an action. It's something you do every day.

Ava's view on love is refreshing and empowering. She believes that love is not a passive emotion; it's an action that requires effort and commitment. Love is something you do every day, whether it's through small gestures or grand displays of affection. When we actively show love to the people in our lives, we create stronger, more meaningful relationships.

Healthy relationships require healthy boundaries. You have to know your worth and demand respect.

Ava understands the importance of setting healthy boundaries in relationships. Knowing your worth and demanding respect is crucial for maintaining healthy, fulfilling relationships. When we allow others to treat us poorly or disrespect us, we send a message that our worth is not valuable. But when we set healthy boundaries and demand respect, we create an environment of mutual love and respect.

On Failure

Failure is not the opposite of success; it's a stepping stone to it.

Ava's view on failure is incredibly inspiring. She believes that failure is not the end; it's just a stepping stone on the path to success. When we fail, we learn valuable lessons that can help us grow and improve. Failure is not something to be feared or avoided; it's an essential part of the journey to success.

Don't let failure define you. Use it as fuel to propel yourself forward.

Ava understands the power of perseverance and resilience. When we experience failure, it's easy to feel defeated and give up. But Ava encourages us to use failure as fuel to propel ourselves forward. When we pick ourselves up after a setback and keep pushing forward, we show ourselves what we're capable of achieving.

Conclusion

Ava Duvernay's quotes are a reflection of her unique perspective on life, love, and the human experience. Her insights on filmmaking, diversity, love, relationships, and failure are inspiring and empowering. Whether you're a filmmaker, artist, or just someone looking for inspiration, Ava's words are sure to resonate with you. So take these quotes to heart and use them as a source of motivation as you navigate your own journey through life.


Ava Duvernay Quotes

When it comes to Ava Duvernay, there's no denying that she's a force to be reckoned with. She's a director, producer, and screenwriter who's made a name for herself in Hollywood by telling stories that matter. But what really sets her apart is her unique perspective on the world of filmmaking. Here are ten Ava Duvernay quotes that showcase her humor and wisdom.

I'm not a fan of the word 'diversity.' It suggests something that is separate from the norm. I think 'inclusion' is a much better term. It's about including everyone, not just those who fit a certain mold.

Leave it to Ava Duvernay to drop some truth bombs about language. Her point about diversity being a loaded term is something that's been on many people's minds lately. But by suggesting inclusion as an alternative, she not only reframes the conversation but also reminds us that everyone deserves a seat at the table.

I'm constantly amazed by how we can all watch the same movie or TV show, but have such different experiences. It's like we all need our own individual subtitles.

This quote is so relatable, it hurts. How many times have you watched something with a friend or family member and walked away feeling like you saw a completely different thing? It just goes to show that storytelling is subjective and personal, which is both frustrating and beautiful at the same time.

You know that feeling when you're filming a scene, and you just know that nobody in the audience is going to be able to follow what's going on? Yeah, that's when you know you've made a real piece of art.

As someone who's worked in the film industry, Ava Duvernay knows that sometimes the most challenging scenes are the ones that end up being the most memorable. And while it can be terrifying to take risks as a filmmaker, it's also what makes the process so rewarding.

I don't believe in 'overnight success.' Unless you're talking about finally getting a good night's sleep after months of working tirelessly on a project.

Let's be real: success rarely happens overnight. It takes hard work, dedication, and a lot of trial and error to make it in any industry. But as Ava Duvernay points out, the small victories along the way (like finally getting some rest) are just as important as the big ones.

Sometimes I feel like I'm just one big 'did you know' fact waiting to happen. Did you know that Ava Duvernay was the first black woman to win the directing award at Sundance? See, now you know.

It's hard not to feel a sense of pride when you hear about all of Ava Duvernay's accomplishments, especially considering how often women of color are sidelined in Hollywood. But what's even more impressive is her humility and willingness to use her platform to bring attention to other voices in the industry.

When it comes to filmmaking, my motto is: 'fail better.' Every time I make a mistake, I try to learn from it and do better the next time. Of course, this doesn't apply to my personal life. There, I'm more of a 'fail worse' kind of gal.

Ava Duvernay's ability to laugh at herself is one of her most endearing qualities. It's refreshing to hear someone who's achieved so much talk about their failures and mistakes with such honesty, and it's a reminder that even the most successful people are still human.

I've always been drawn to stories that don't get told enough. Stories about people who are usually relegated to the background. That's why I'm so excited about my next project, 'The Life and Times of a Lamp Post.' Trust me, it's going to be a hit.

Okay, so maybe The Life and Times of a Lamp Post isn't a real project (yet), but the sentiment behind it is. Ava Duvernay has made a career out of telling stories that haven't been given the attention they deserve, and it's something that's sorely needed in an industry that can often feel homogenous.

There's this misconception that being a director means you have to be in control all the time. But really, it's about knowing when to let go and trust your team. Of course, if you're a control freak like me, that can be easier said than done.

It's easy to imagine that being a director means barking orders and micromanaging every aspect of a production. But as Ava Duvernay points out, the best directors are the ones who know how to delegate and trust their team. Of course, for those of us who struggle with control issues, that can be easier said than done.

I love working with actors who are willing to take risks. Like, 'Hey Ava, I know this scene calls for me to just stand here and look bored, but what if I did a cartwheel?' Those are the kind of actors I want to work with.

Ava Duvernay's love of collaboration is evident in this quote. It's clear that she values actors who bring their own ideas and creativity to a project, even if it means deviating from the script. After all, some of the best moments in film and TV come from those spontaneous, unpredictable moments.

At the end of the day, I'm just a girl with a camera and a dream. And a really big bottle of Advil.

Leave it to Ava Duvernay to bring some levity to the filmmaking process. This quote is a reminder that even someone as accomplished as her still deals with the same challenges and headaches that come with any creative endeavor. But it's also a reminder that with a little persistence and a lot of Advil, anything is possible.


Ava Duvernay Quotes: A Humorous Point of View

Who is Ava Duvernay?

Ava Duvernay is an American filmmaker, producer, and director. She is popularly known for directing Selma, A Wrinkle in Time, and the Netflix series When They See Us. She is also a writer and has received various awards for her work.

Ava Duvernay's Quotes

Ava Duvernay is known for her inspiring and thought-provoking quotes. Here are some of her most famous quotes:

  • When you're in your lane, there's no traffic.
  • The only way to do it is to do it.
  • You have to envision your success to achieve your success.
  • If your dream only includes you, it's too small.
  • I always try to lead with empathy and gratitude.

A Humorous Point of View

Now, let me give you my humorous point of view about Ava Duvernay's quotes. As someone who struggles to get out of bed every morning, the first quote that comes to mind is When you're in your lane, there's no traffic. I mean, who wouldn't want to be in a lane where there's no traffic? It's like being in a lane where you can sleep all day and not worry about anything.

As for the quote The only way to do it is to do it, it sounds like something my mom would say to me when I procrastinate. But seriously, she's right. There's no other way to do it than to actually do it. I just wish there was a way to do it without having to get up from my bed.

The quote You have to envision your success to achieve your success is something I try to remind myself every day. But sometimes, all I can envision is a pizza in my hand and a Netflix show on the screen. Does that count as success?

The quote If your dream only includes you, it's too small is a bit confusing for me. Does that mean I should dream of owning a pizza place and sharing my pizza with others? Sounds like a great plan to me.

Lastly, the quote I always try to lead with empathy and gratitude is something we should all try to do. But let's be honest, sometimes it's hard to be empathetic when someone eats the last slice of pizza. Gratitude, on the other hand, is easy. Thank you, pizza.

In Conclusion

Ava Duvernay's quotes are inspiring and thought-provoking. But sometimes, it's good to take a humorous point of view and not take things too seriously. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a pizza to order.


Closing Message: Ava Duvernay Quotes

Well, folks, we’ve come to the end of our journey through the inspiring and thought-provoking quotes of the one and only Ava Duvernay. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading these quotes as much as I’ve enjoyed writing about them. But before we say goodbye, let’s take a moment to reflect on what we’ve learned.

Firstly, we’ve learned that Ava Duvernay is a powerhouse of a woman. Not only is she a talented filmmaker, but she’s an advocate for social justice and equality. Her passion for making a difference in the world is evident in everything she says and does.

Secondly, we’ve learned that Ava Duvernay has a way with words. Her quotes are insightful, poetic, and often humorous. She has a knack for summing up complex ideas in a few simple sentences.

Thirdly, we’ve learned that Ava Duvernay is a master of storytelling. Whether it’s through her films or her speeches, she knows how to captivate an audience and make them feel something.

So, what can we take away from all of this? Well, for starters, we can be inspired by Ava Duvernay’s example. We can strive to be passionate about making a difference in the world, just like she is. We can work on honing our own storytelling skills, whether that’s through filmmaking, writing, or any other creative pursuit.

But perhaps most importantly, we can remember to always keep a sense of humor about things. As Ava Duvernay herself once said, “Laughter is the best medicine. Unless you have diarrhea.”

Okay, maybe that last quote wasn’t the most profound thing she’s ever said, but it’s a good reminder that even the most serious of topics can benefit from a little levity.

So, as we say goodbye to Ava Duvernay and her wise words, let’s take a moment to smile and appreciate the humor in life. And who knows? Maybe one day we’ll be inspiring others with our own insightful and hilarious quotes.

Until then, thanks for reading, and keep on laughing.


People Also Ask About Ava Duvernay Quotes

Who is Ava Duvernay?

Ava Duvernay is an American filmmaker, producer, and screenwriter. She is known for directing films like Selma, 13th, and A Wrinkle in Time. She is also the first black woman to win the Best Director Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

What are some of Ava Duvernay's famous quotes?

Here are some of Ava Duvernay's most famous quotes:

  1. The art of filmmaking is the most democratic that it’s been in a long time.
  2. You can’t just be the noun without the verb. You gotta do the verb.
  3. When you’re in your lane, there’s no traffic.
  4. Change comes from understanding.
  5. Don’t let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity. It’s your place in the world; it’s your life.

What is Ava Duvernay's philosophy on filmmaking?

Ava Duvernay believes that filmmaking is about telling stories that haven't been told before. She also believes in using film as a tool for social change and giving voice to marginalized communities. Her philosophy is summed up in this quote: I want to tell stories that have never been told before, and contribute to a cinema landscape that has more women, more people of color, and more points of view.

Is Ava Duvernay funny?

Yes, Ava Duvernay has a great sense of humor! She often uses humor to address serious issues and has been known to make jokes during interviews and on social media. Her humorous tone is evident in this quote: I always tell people, you gotta have a sense of humor about life. It’s too long not to laugh at yourself.