Every director bites the hand that lays the golden egg

Every director bites the hand that lays the golden egg

Samuel Goldwyn, the legendary film producer and co-founder of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), was known for his sharp wit and no-nonsense approach to filmmaking. He was also known for his often contentious relationships with the directors he worked with. Goldwyn famously said, "Every director bites the hand that lays the golden egg," a statement that perfectly encapsulates his complex and sometimes tumultuous relationships with the creative minds behind his films.

Goldwyn was a shrewd businessman who understood the importance of making successful films in order to keep his studio afloat. He was known for his hands-on approach to filmmaking, often involving himself in every aspect of the production process. This level of control sometimes clashed with the artistic vision of the directors he worked with, leading to conflicts and disagreements.

One of the most famous examples of Goldwyn's difficult relationships with directors was his collaboration with William Wyler. Wyler was a talented director who worked on several successful films for Goldwyn, including "Wuthering Heights" and "The Best Years of Our Lives." However, their working relationship was fraught with tension, as Wyler often clashed with Goldwyn over creative decisions and budgetary constraints. Despite their differences, the two men were able to produce some of the most iconic films of the era.

Another director who famously clashed with Goldwyn was Howard Hawks. Hawks was a prolific filmmaker who worked on several successful films for Goldwyn, including "Ball of Fire" and "The Westerner." However, their working relationship was strained by Hawks' independent spirit and refusal to conform to Goldwyn's demands. Despite their disagreements, the two men were able to produce some of the most enduring films of the era.