But who said art has to cost money? And therefore, who says artists have to make money?

When I do a novel, I don't really use the script, I use the book; when I did Apocalypse Now, I used Heart of Darkness. Novels usually have so much rich material.

I wanted to write and direct movies and not be forced to adapt them from a bestselling book.

I've been blessed with enough wealth that I can make a film myself up to a certain budget. So one way I thought I would reinvent myself was just to make these very small, personal films that I've financed myself.

I think a sequel is a waste of money and time. I think movies should illuminate new stories.

My film is not a movie; it's not about Vietnam. It is Vietnam.

I like to work in the morning. I like to sometimes go to a place where I'm all alone where I'm not going to get a phone call early that hurts my feelings, because once my feelings are hurt, I'm dead in the water.