When I split an infinitive, God damn it, I split it so it stays split.

The wise screen writer is he who wears his second-best suit, artistically speaking, and doesn't take things too much to heart. He should have a touch of cynicism, but only a touch. The complete cynic is as useless to Hollywood as he is to himself. He should do the best he can without straining at it. He should be scrupulously honest about his work, but he should not expect scrupulous honesty in return. He won't get it. And when he has had enough, he should say goodbye with a smile, because for all he knows he may want to go back.

When in doubt, have a man come through the door with a gun in his hand.

Down these mean streets a man must go who is neither tarnished nor afraid

If you believe in an idea, you don't own you, it owns you.

The modern film tries too hard to be real. Its techniques of illusion are so perfect that it requires no contribution from the audience but a mouthful of popcorn.

LA doesn't have the heart of a paper cup.