You see I don't like to be really too commercial about things but in this business you've just got to be commercial otherwise the films don't make money and you don't make films and as a long as a commodity is selling it's silly to kill it dead.

The quote by Peter Cushing reflects a pragmatic view of the film industry and the balance between art and commerce. Cushing admits that while he personally dislikes being overly commercial, he recognizes that in the movie business, being commercial is necessary to ensure that films make money. Without profitability, films wouldn't be produced, highlighting the reality that financial success drives the industry.

Cushing’s comment about a commodity selling points to the idea that if a particular type of film or franchise is popular and profitable, it makes little sense to stop producing it. This reflects the commercial logic behind sequels, franchises, and popular genres that studios continue to invest in because of their guaranteed audience and revenue. He acknowledges the economic pressures that shape creative decisions in filmmaking.

The origin of this quote comes from Peter Cushing’s long career as an actor, particularly in genre films like horror, where commercial success often determines what projects get made. His experience gave him insight into the tension between artistic preferences and business demands, which is common for many creatives in the entertainment world.

Overall, the quote emphasizes the importance of commercial viability in the film industry and how financial considerations often dictate the survival of movies and franchises. It conveys a realistic, if somewhat reluctant, acceptance that commerce plays a critical role in sustaining artistic ventures.