The study of acting consists in the main of getting out of one’s own way, and in learning to deal with uncertainty and being comfortable being uncomfortable.

Don't write stage directions. If it is not apparent what the character is trying to accomplish by saying the line, tell us how the character said it or whether or not she moved to the couch isn't going to aid the case.

I've always been more comfortable sinking while clutching a good theory than swimming with an ugly fact.

The Oscars demonstrate the will of the people to control and judge those they have elected to stand above them (much, perhaps, as in bygone days, an election celebrated the same).

In Chicago, we love our crooks!

I go out there. I'm out there every day. [Pause] There is nothing out there.

The work of the director is the work of constructing the shot list from the script.