Ridley Scott, the acclaimed director behind some of cinema’s most iconic films, recently shared insights into how his early training in the arts continues to shape his filmmaking style. Speaking to PEOPLE, the legendary director highlighted the profound impact that his time at art school has had on his approach to visual storytelling.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/ridley-scott-082026-c1af2ac6cf054a0da3558448c156a2a7.jpg)
At 88 years old, Scott remains dedicated to the crafting of his films, emphasising that he begins visualising a project long before filming starts. “I’m filming on paper in my head, but then it goes onto the paper because my time at art school is the most useful time in my life,” he remarked. This method, he explains, is critical to articulating his vision clearly, enabling a smoother transition from concept to production.
Scott’s latest cinematic endeavour, “The Dog Stars,” is an adaptation of Peter Heller’s post-apocalyptic novel. Set to be released on August 28, 2024, the film features Jacob Elordi as Hig, a young pilot navigating a world devastated by a pandemic, with Josh Brolin portraying Bangley, a rugged survivalist companion, and Margaret Qualley playing Cima. The project arrived at Scott’s doorstep at a time when he was seeking his next venture, and he was immediately captivated by the script.
The director’s formal artistic journey began in the UK, where he attended West Hartlepool College of Art. He later honed his skills at the Royal College of Art in London between 1958 and 1961, focusing on graphic design during a transformative period when various visual media were emerging. “This was the school of everything. You just had to be pushy and go for it,” Scott reflected, reminding aspiring artists of the need for initiative.
Lacking a conventional film school background, Scott entered the world of commercial filmmaking after his studies. His experiences in the British advertising sector proved invaluable, as he learned to convey narratives succinctly and effectively. “The advertising was my film school,” he stated, noting that he directed around 2,000 commercials, which shaped his understanding of pacing, lighting, and storytelling.
Among his most notable ads was the groundbreaking 1984 commercial for Apple, launched to promote the Macintosh. This phase of his career not only solidified his reputation in advertising but also laid the groundwork for his meticulous visual style in feature films. From the gritty aesthetics of “Alien” to the vibrant, dystopian hues of “Blade Runner,” Scott has consistently demonstrated a keen eye for design.
As he prepares for future projects, Scott remains committed to the same rigorous planning processes that have served him well throughout his career. “I’m a very quick decision maker. And most importantly, I always turn up knowing exactly what I’m going to do,” he affirmed, underscoring his dedication to being thoroughly prepared before stepping onto a set.
Looking ahead, Scott has ambitious plans in motion, including a film adaptation of “Treasure Island.” He has already begun laying the groundwork for this project and shared, “As soon as I knew what I wanted to do, I started to draw.” Production for the film is slated to commence on November 1, 2026, with Hugh Jackman signed on to play the notorious Long John Silver.
With “The Dog Stars” currently in theatres and “Treasure Island” on the horizon, Ridley Scott continues to stand at the forefront of cinematic storytelling. His unique blend of artistic vision and commercial insight serves as a testament to a filmmaking career that has transformed the industry for over fifty years.