I suppose I've been working for a long time, so I've seen all kinds of filmmaking. I can fit into anything, and it doesn't feel that weird or that fascinating.

When I work, I disappear into work, which I like to do, and sometimes I don't really have a choice. It's not a conscious thing. It's just total devotion to what I'm doing.

I think new experiences are extremely important. I think it's really important to constantly challenge yourself. Comfort is not a good thing. It's good to take yourself out of your comfort zone and to look for new challenges.

The war is definitely in the background, only referred to in radio news blips and conversation. I think, ultimately, this film is about the choices these guys are faced with. In that way, I think this is a more personal story about their friendship, about the reaction that they have when they're essentially faced with death, to a certain degree.

I initially thought it was going to feel weird to be [on Sundance] while [the marches against now-President Donald Trump] was happening. And feel disconnected in that way that feels irresponsible. But the other side of it is that there are people here who believe the right things that are trying to make a difference with art.

My God! Middle Earth does exist!

Geeks are generally the most interesting people.