Martell Cognac approached me to make a film for them that represented the spirit of John Martell and what he stood for as a person and as a visionary - the qualities that they felt were linked to the brand because of John Martell himself. The creation of the cognac had an impact on the world. That's what Martell Cognac would like to promote: people that can inspire other kids and generations. They have a saying: "It's not what you achieve, it's how you achieve it."

Cachao is obviously Cuban. He's known for traditional Cuban music and that's the music that I'm most passionate about. Cachao is one of the greatest innovators and visionaries. At the base of the tree, the roots, there is Cachao. So I was blessed to have had that time to learn from him and to give him an opportunity and a space where he can create. Everybody always wants to play with Cachao, because he's the guy.

Movies are very hard to make, to get it all to come together. So many people have their say in what the end product of films are.

The executions, persecution and imprisonment of political dissidents and the LGBT community, denial of free press, elections and religious freedoms, continue to be Fidel Castro's legacy.

It depends. When it's the right scenario, it's just as stimulating and just as exciting for me. It's just a question of finding a piece of material that lights a fire under you.

It's important, when going after a goal, to never lose sight of the integrity of the journey.

I'm a staunch anti-Castro individual.