Films that are entertainments give simple answers but I think thats ultimately more cynical, as it denies the viewer room to think. If there are more answers at the end, then surely it is a richer experience. – Michael Haneke
Drama lives on conflict. If youre trying to deal with social issues seriously, theres no way of avoiding violence, which is so present in society. – Michael Haneke
People expect me to be dark and gloomy, then write that Im a jolly chap, and after all, that is what I am. I think its a case of an absolute romantic naivety that there should be a parallel between the work and the artist. – Michael Haneke
Because Im the author of my screenplays I know what Im looking for. Its true that I can be stubborn in demanding that I get what I want, but its also a question of working with patience and love. – Michael Haneke
I think its been hard for people to understand how Islam can be a good religion, and yet the Islamists are evil. Those of us who have had experience with Islam understand this, just as we understand the difference between snake handlers and people going to church on Sunday morning. – P. J. ORourke