I've always felt that I've made films, period. I wanted to leave the "ghetto." And here I am, I'm out.

All of my films are based on personal experiences and beliefs. Many of my heroes are my spokespeople - and some are not!

I'm a sorcerer because I start with nothing, and then, eventually, there is something. And I touch you, I move you, I make you laugh or cry, and you believe in what's happening on the screen, although I always show it's invented.

I never seem to be able to sell my films correctly in the U.S. The U.S. defends itself on its own turf.

Fairy tales have a hidden power, and their appeal never ends. They're the best way to get messages across.

I like to make people happy, and with fairy tales, I can say anything I want to, but in an agreeable way.

Before my commercial success, I had difficulty doing what I wanted, but my sincere short films always won prizes in festivals. So I was ready for larger successes.