I'm not afraid of special effects, but I see them very much as a means to an end.

After defining an idea of what I want to achieve, through a series of storyboard images, I'll go to the ends of the earth to create it, whether that involves obscure camera lenses or the latest electronic techniques.

Not being a genius, I believe in collaboration, and my background as a problem solver means I've never been afraid to work with people cleverer than myself.

It has made me realise how many doors open for you when you're up for an Oscar. It seems once you are nominated, it validates you as a serious director, and you become someone that people want to work with.

The future of America is not an entitlement. We have been given a treasure chest of gifts and opportunities, but some people are being left behind, and success is not sustainable unless it is shared.

I'd had my time in the charts and made loads of money. I was no longer hungry for success.

I could care less about statistics. It's all about team success.

Your tenacity is a larger deciding factor in your success than however good or bad an actor you may be. I feel like that's just something that cannot be overstated enough for people getting into the business. You have to really want it more than anybody else.