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

Kids in different countries know my movies by heart because they've seen them so many times. And wonderful returns never stop.

My producers give me total freedom. No one asks me for anything; they just tell me to make a good film, and that's what I do.

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.

My inspiration is my life, what I see happening around me. It can be history and, quite often, plain traditional fairy tales. But I never adapt; I nourish myself with old stories, and then create my own tales.

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

I'm at peace with myself. My film just may please audiences. At any rate, it's already a great prize to be part of just 16 films among all of the world cinema out there. I'm tranquil and satisfied.