Usually, I only get to work a few weeks on a movie, or I often don't make it to the end of the movie because I'm disposed of.

I don't blame any director for wanting to do something more commercial. That's all part of the business. I certainly have done it, as an actor.

Casting is everything. Getting the person that you imagined is this character and then seeing what they bring to it.That's why you hire them, so why tell somebody first what it is you want? I'm more curious to see what they bring to it and then be inspired by it and say: "OK, what if you tried this?" or "What would happen if ... ?"

There's a certain type of character that you can't help but come in contact with growing up and living in Brooklyn and Long Island. A certain mixture of moxie, heart, and a wise guy sense of humor.

Casting is everything. Getting the person that you imagined is this character and then seeing what they bring to it.

I've had dentists who have wanted to help me out, but I say, 'You know, I won't work again if you fix my teeth.'

Bob Altman had this relaxed but serious attitude. Everybody loved him. I wanted him to adopt me.