My first instinct was to cast as close to the short story as possible, but then I realized that I needed actors who could go for it and that they had to function well as a couple in a love story.

I wanted to shoot straight, mainstream, somehow off-beat. Not only realistic West, which is quite unfamiliar to the world's population - even to a lot of Americans.

I think great romance needs great obstacles and textures.

Americans are hidden dragons to me.

If the movie is quiet I generally feel the audience is busy. That's when they're working.

Beautifully-acted and precisely observed, ILO ILO is an amazing debut, full of heart and intelligence.

I think each movie-making process is a very exhausting and satisfying and fulfilling experience for me.