The reward is that you can actually create a world separate from reality with a story, actors, music, and camera design. When it works it can entertain, move people and teach us all.

In the quote, "The reward is that you can actually create a world separate from reality with a story, actors, music, and camera design. When it works it can entertain, move people and teach us all," Colleen Atwood, an acclaimed costume designer, is reflecting on the power of film and storytelling. Atwood is emphasizing the transformative potential of cinema to create immersive worlds that are distinct from our everyday experiences. Through a combination of narrative, performance, and technical elements like music and camera design, filmmakers can craft stories that transport audiences to different realities.

Atwood acknowledges that the reward of this creative process is not just in the ability to escape reality but also in the profound impact it can have on viewers. When done well, a film can deeply entertain, move emotionally, and even educate audiences. It shows the power of cinema as a medium to influence and shape societal attitudes, provoke thought, and challenge the status quo. By designing a fictional world, filmmakers have the opportunity to convey complex themes and emotions that resonate on a universal level.

The origin of this quote ties back to Atwood’s work as a costume designer, a role crucial in building the visual identity of the film’s world. Her designs contribute to shaping the atmosphere and bringing the story to life. Her perspective highlights how all elements of filmmaking, from the story to the design, are interconnected in creating an experience that can transcend ordinary life, touching on something deeply human and universally relatable.

Ultimately, Atwood's quote reflects her appreciation for the collaborative nature of filmmaking, where every detail, from acting to music to camera design, works together to create a world that resonates with audiences. Through this process, films can become more than just entertainment; they can move people emotionally and provide valuable insights into the human condition.