AI: William Wyler, Martin Scorsese, and Steven Spielberg Compared: Best Director Oscar Nominations (Part I William Wyler)
It was all Wyler. I had known all the horrors of no direction and bad direction. I now knew what a great director was and what he could mean to an actress. I will always be grateful to him for his toughness and his genius.
—Bette Davis
If any film actor is having trouble with his career, can’t master the medium, and, anyway, wonders whether it’s worth it, let him pray to meet a man like William Wyler.
—Laurence Olivier
Dear Mad Willy. I saw Mrs. Miniver last night. It is absolutely wonderful. You repeatedly amaze me with the demonstrations of your talent, and I ask you to believe that it is with genuine pleasure that I salute this latest and greatest example of your work.
—Producer David Selznick
“Wyler’s films are full of humanity. He had a deep understanding of the human condition and a compassion for his characters, even the flawed ones.”
– Martin Scorsese
“Wyler’s films are timeless. They deal with universal themes and emotions that resonate with audiences across generations.”
– Steven Spielberg