By employing a certain sense of humor, you essentially get more serious about things and show conflict more effectively than if you were overly dramatic or only violent because that's a one-way approach that just forces audiences to watch something appalling.

In this quote, Yorgos Lanthimos discusses the effectiveness of using humor as a tool for conveying conflict in storytelling. He explains that by incorporating humor, you can highlight serious issues in a way that makes them more engaging and impactful. Lanthimos contrasts this approach with being overly dramatic or relying solely on violence, which he believes can alienate the audience. According to him, humor allows for a more nuanced and multi-dimensional approach to conflict, keeping the audience engaged without overwhelming them with intense emotion or shock value.

Lanthimos suggests that humor provides a more balanced way of addressing difficult or uncomfortable topics. While violence or melodrama might force the audience to react in a specific way, humor creates a space for reflection and deeper engagement. Humor’s ability to lighten the tone while still addressing the seriousness of a situation makes it a more versatile and thought-provoking tool in storytelling, allowing for a more complex exploration of themes like conflict and human behavior.

The origin of this quote lies in Lanthimos's work as a director and screenwriter, particularly in his films that blend dark humor with unsettling, often uncomfortable situations. Known for films like The Lobster and The Favourite, Lanthimos has consistently used absurdist humor to explore themes of societal norms, relationships, and personal identity. His use of humor to address serious topics is a signature of his unique storytelling style.

Ultimately, the quote highlights how humor can be an effective device for enhancing conflict and adding layers to a narrative. Lanthimos’s approach suggests that humor can transform potentially heavy themes into something more accessible and engaging, while still maintaining the depth and seriousness of the subject matter. This method contrasts with the more direct or shock-driven approaches, providing a fresh way of addressing complex emotional and social issues.