It's fun when you start a movie, because it's kind of like you get to go Christmas shopping... you get to make your wish list and you start thinking about what each character needs.

In this quote, Spike Jonze compares the process of starting a movie to the experience of Christmas shopping, highlighting the creative excitement of building a story. He describes how, much like when creating a wish list for gifts, the filmmaker’s role involves thinking about the needs and desires of each character. This comparison emphasizes the imaginative and personal nature of filmmaking, where the director carefully considers what each character requires to create a compelling narrative.

Jonze’s analogy reflects the early stages of filmmaking, where decisions are made about what each character will experience and how they will evolve. Just as Christmas shopping involves selecting the perfect gifts for loved ones, a filmmaker selects the right situations, dialogue, and experiences for each character to ensure the story is engaging. The process is both creative and thoughtful, akin to planning a special occasion where every detail matters.

The quote also touches on the joy and anticipation that come with starting a new project. Jonze finds a sense of fun and excitement in this phase of filmmaking, as he begins to piece together the elements of the story. Much like the joy of planning a perfect Christmas, the act of creating a film provides a sense of fulfillment as the filmmaker imagines how the characters’ needs will be met within the narrative.

Ultimately, Jonze’s words illustrate the creative process as both an enjoyable and imaginative experience. By comparing it to Christmas shopping, he conveys the fun of preparing for something special—both in terms of character development and the overall experience of making a film. It’s a reminder that the beginning stages of a project can be filled with anticipation and the excitement of building something meaningful.