AF

Abel Ferrara

91quotes

Abel Ferrara: A Maverick Filmmaker's Journey


Full Name and Common Aliases


Abel Ferrara is a renowned American film director, screenwriter, and actor born on July 19, 1951. He is also known by his nickname "The King of New York."

Birth and Death Dates


July 19, 1951 - present (still alive)

Nationality and Profession(s)


American | Filmmaker, Screenwriter, Actor

Abel Ferrara has made significant contributions to the world of cinema as a director, screenwriter, and actor. His work often explores themes of violence, morality, and the human condition.

Early Life and Background


Ferrara was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Italian-American parents. He grew up on the streets of Manhattan's Lower East Side, an environment that would later influence his filmmaking style and subject matter. Ferrara's early life was marked by poverty and a tumultuous relationship with his father, which would become a recurring theme in his work.

Major Accomplishments


Ferrara's career spans over four decades, during which he has directed numerous critically acclaimed films that have garnered international recognition. Some of his notable works include:

The Driller Killer (1979): A low-budget horror film that explores themes of violence and isolation.
 Ms. 45 (1981): A feminist revenge thriller that gained a cult following.
China Girl (1987): A drama that examines the lives of two prostitutes in New York City.
 Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans (2009): A crime drama starring Nicolas Cage, which earned Ferrara several awards and nominations.

Notable Works or Actions


In addition to his filmography, Ferrara has also made significant contributions to the world of television. He directed several episodes of HBO's The Sopranos, including the critically acclaimed episode "Kennedy and Heidi." Ferrara has also worked extensively in theater, directing productions for the Off-Broadway stage.

Impact and Legacy


Abel Ferrara's influence on contemporary cinema is undeniable. His unapologetic style and willingness to tackle taboo subjects have inspired a new generation of filmmakers. Ferrara's impact extends beyond his own work; he has also influenced the careers of actors, writers, and directors who have worked with him over the years.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Ferrara is widely quoted and remembered for his unflinching approach to storytelling and his willingness to explore the darker aspects of human nature. His films often challenge social norms and conventions, sparking important conversations about violence, morality, and the human condition. As a result, he has become a respected figure in the film industry, known for pushing boundaries and inspiring others to do the same.

Quotes by Abel Ferrara

I’m about my characters.
"
I’m about my characters.
AF
I direct, and I make movies I can’t finance. I can’t raise money. I can’t sell anything. I make things.
"
I direct, and I make movies I can’t finance. I can’t raise money. I can’t sell anything. I make things.
AF
Certain actors wanna get paid, they think working in a low-budget movie is being ripped off. But for others it’s like, ‘Yes, let’s do it.’
"
Certain actors wanna get paid, they think working in a low-budget movie is being ripped off. But for others it’s like, ‘Yes, let’s do it.’
AF
But I’m never gonna get to a point in my life where what it costs to shoot a movie is going to determine what it is. The limits of my imagination is the only thing that’s gonna stop me.
"
But I’m never gonna get to a point in my life where what it costs to shoot a movie is going to determine what it is. The limits of my imagination is the only thing that’s gonna stop me.
AF
A script is not a piece of literature it’s a process.
"
A script is not a piece of literature it’s a process.
AF
My job is going to be to direct the film – I’m going to do it. And that’s where my job ends.
"
My job is going to be to direct the film – I’m going to do it. And that’s where my job ends.
AF
Making money is not gonna change anything about what I am, except I won’t answer the door.
"
Making money is not gonna change anything about what I am, except I won’t answer the door.
AF
I grew up in the Bronx. I’m into rap music.
"
I grew up in the Bronx. I’m into rap music.
AF
A lifetime isn’t long enough to learn how to make films.
"
A lifetime isn’t long enough to learn how to make films.
AF
I grew up in the ’60s, which was a creative time, so it wasn’t that big of a stretch to go from a baseball bat to a guitar to a film camera.
"
I grew up in the ’60s, which was a creative time, so it wasn’t that big of a stretch to go from a baseball bat to a guitar to a film camera.
AF
Showing 1 to 10 of 91 results