“Theatre is interesting as a catharsis for actors because it's the only way you can be idiotic and get away with it. I really, really don't like theatre and I feel so far from it.”
“When I look back over my films is that I have dealt in particular with the destructive side (of people), with anger, hatred, and desperation. I have taken a very strict approach in formal terms and allowed little scope here for frivolity and lightness of touch or elegance.”
“What is important to me about my movies is that the stories and messages are for anyone. Anyone who needs to learn about forgiveness will enjoy it no matter who they are.”
“I've lost all my money on these films. They are not commercial. But I'm glad to lose it this way. To have for a souvenir of my life pictures like Umberto D. and The Bicycle Thief.”
“French production is not definitively outclassed by the Americans and that we are not henceforward going to be reduced always to be following in others’ footsteps.”
“In Eastern Europe, the moral responsibility of the artist is even bigger than in France or in England. I would say that France and England are already largely westernized.”