I think a good director casts a film so that the actors bring a lot to the table.

There are some scenes that work beautifully in a moving, sweeping master, which is how I like to work.

As one who loves literature, art, music and history, I've been deeply rooted in the Harlem Renaissance for many years.

As far as pacing the shoot is concerned, I know when I've got it. I don't think there's any reason to take ten takes unless you need them.

I use something that is a real staple in the directing world. It's called a dance floor. You lay it down so that it's so smooth you can roll around, and you can put furniture on top of it. It's seamless and you don't see it.

It goes back to a style of moviemaking I remember seeing as a child, in movies like The Man With The Golden Arm, which I think was shot all on a sound stage.

The first thing that goes into shooting a scene is understanding whats on the page.