It's hard work to find your own voice and not to copycat anything.

I think one of the most important American films is 'Jackie Brown,' which is such a humble depiction of humble characters but so powerful. The film was pure depiction of the American poverty of the '90s.

I never rehearse scenes with the whole ensemble, because I need to preserve some surprise. Instead, I work with the cast individually on their characters.

I'm an absolute fan of Angela Bassett. I think she's a great, great actress. In the biopics, she is so moving. She's very rare. It's something that doesn't happen that much, to see an actress inventing a new way of showing 'woman' onscreen, and a new way of being beautiful.

I love some films with very silent characters, people who don't speak, but I wouldn't be able to do that.

I hate this idea in the Cinematheque that you must watch silent movies with no music, like it's a piece of art. It's not true.