How did George Stevens’s careful filmmaking affect shooting schedules and production costs?

George Stevens was renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and extensive research, which were central to his filmmaking process. This commitment to precision often resulted in longer shooting schedules and increased production costs, a tendency that frequently frustrated studio executives.1

While these practices sometimes led to significant budgetary and scheduling challenges—most notably with the production of The Greatest Story Ever Told, which ran well over its intended schedule and budget—Stevens remained steadfast in his approach. He believed that his audience possessed the intelligence to appreciate the depth and quality of his work, which was characterized by the careful integration of music, visuals, and sentimental themes.12