When there is conflict, it's good to step away, even for five minutes, because you could say terrible things that you can't take back, so it's best to walk away.

I don't speak up about something unless I feel strongly about it and until I've researched a subject extensively and have an informed decision about it.

If you're not optimistic on some level, then you've given up.

If there's one thing I've learned from traveling, it's that it is definitely more important how you are than where you are. You can say, 'Oh, I hate X city, I hate that country, or I prefer this city,' but it's a little bit up to you to find some kind of happiness.

When we shot 'The Lord of the Rings,' we had special permission to film in wild areas of New Zealand that could be accessed only by helicopter. They would drop us off and we would work all day, and they'd pick us up and take us out again.

Any nominations a movie gets helps to raise the level of curiosity in the public, so in that sense awards and nominations are important.

It's just like with people. You're going to get along better working with them - human or equine - if you ask politely rather than demand that they do things.