I have never understood people dividing things into dramas and comedies.

That seems to me the greatest American danger we're all in, that we'll bargain away the experience of being alive for the appearance of it.

There's nothing in the American dream about character. It's a serious flaw.

Directing is mystifying. It's a long, long, skid on an icy road, and you do the best you can trying to stay on the road... If you're still here when you come out of the spin, it's a relief. But you've got to have the terror if you're going to do anything worthwhile.

The only safe thing is to take a chance. Play safe and you are dead. Taking risks is the essence of good work, and the difference between safe and bold can only be defined by yourself since no one else knows for what you are hoping when you embark on anything.

Nerves provide me with energy... It's when I don't have them, when I feel at ease, that's when I get worried.

The unconscious is our best collaborator.