Art films aren't necessarily photography. It's feeling. If we can capture a feeling of a people, of a way of life, then we made a good picture.

There's a difference between ad-libbing and improvising. And there's a difference between not knowing what to do and just saying something. Or making choices as an actor. As a writer also, as a person who's making a film, as a cameraman, everything is a choice. And it seems to me I don't really have to direct anyone or write down that somebody's getting drunk; all I have to do is say that there's a bottle there and put a bottle there and then they're going to get drunk.

I won't make shorthand films, because I don't want to manipulate audiences into assuming quick, manufactured truths.

I like to act in films, I like to shoot 'em, I like to direct 'em, I like to be around 'em. I like the feel of it and it's something I respect. It doesn't make any difference whether it's a crappy film or a good film. Anyone who can make a film, I already love. But I feel sorry if they don't put any thought in it because then they missed the boat.

An artist can accomplish anything provided he doesn't accept facts or defeat for more than a few minutes.

(Acting) is an extension of life. How you're capable of performing in your life, that's how you're capable of performing on screen.

Filmmaking is exploring. Why would I want to make a film about something I already understand?