Peter Jackson was very good to me after I made my first film, he was really one of the best things that happened after that movie. I was invited to New Zealand to go hang out with him on 'The Hobbit', and so for two weeks I got to sit next to him and watch him direct, and it was the most amazing experience you could ever have.

The quote "Peter Jackson was very good to me after I made my first film, he was really one of the best things that happened after that movie. I was invited to New Zealand to go hang out with him on 'The Hobbit', and so for two weeks I got to sit next to him and watch him direct, and it was the most amazing experience you could ever have" by Gareth Edwards reflects his deep gratitude and admiration for the filmmaker Peter Jackson. Edwards, the director of Godzilla and Rogue One, speaks about how Jackson, known for his work on The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, supported him early in his career and offered him a valuable opportunity to observe his directorial process.

Edwards emphasizes the impact Jackson had on his career, describing the experience of being invited to New Zealand to watch Jackson direct The Hobbit as "one of the best things" that happened to him after making his first film. This opportunity was significant for Edwards, as it gave him a chance to learn from one of the most renowned directors in the world, providing a firsthand look at the complexities of filmmaking on a major production. The invitation to hang out with Jackson not only opened doors for Edwards but also allowed him to gain invaluable insight into the world of big-budget film direction.

By describing this as the "most amazing experience," Edwards highlights the mentorship and inspiration he gained from the time spent with Jackson. Sitting next to Jackson and observing him direct helped Edwards understand the practical aspects of filmmaking that can't be learned in textbooks, from managing a large crew to making creative decisions on set. This experience likely shaped Edwards' own approach to directing in subsequent projects.

Ultimately, Gareth Edwards' quote reflects the power of mentorship in the film industry, showing how learning from experienced professionals like Peter Jackson can have a profound influence on a young director's career. It underscores the importance of seizing opportunities to learn from those who have navigated the challenges of filmmaking, making the experience both a career milestone and a personal inspiration.