I see a movie as a way of learning about the world, about myself, and learning about my relationship with people and art.

To me, Ennis stands for the conservative side of America. He's the biggest homophobe in the whole movie - culturally and psychologically - but by the time he admits his feelings, it's too late.

Many times when you make a movie, it feels like your biggest mistake. But even if a film isn't a hit, you shouldn't view it as a mistake.

After making several tragic movies in a row, I was looking to do a comedy, and one without cynicism.

I don't have incredible knowledge about films or of filmmaking history; I'm not that kind of person.

What is really a stretch to me is to make quick decisions.

San Francisco is one of my favourite cities in the world...I would probably rank it at the top or near the top. It's small but photogenic and has layers...You never have problems finding great angles that people have never done.