By showing hunger, deprivation, starvation and brutality, as well as endurance and nobility, documentaries inform, prod our memories, even stir us to action. Such films do battle for our very soul.

For I firmly believe that Jewish life, indeed any communal life, can only be organized according to democratic principles.

I refuse to do shows that are narrowly constructed, that appeal to only one sentiment. I do a lot of Jewish material in front of non-Jews and a lot of non-Jewish material in front of Jews on the simple theory that the non-Jews are entitled to a glimpse of a Jewish world and the Jews are entitled to a glimpse of the world.

I am filled with awe that filmmakers have the capacity to stir us and give us back a sense of wonder.

Audiences are audiences.

In my world, history comes down to language and art.

I'm exceedingly proud of being an actor, but I never recommend it to anyone.