Ive never let producers tell me what to do. Even when I was making television, I always did what I wanted to do, and if I couldnt, I didnt do it. It was a freedom that, these days, young directors starting out dont have. – 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
Funny Games was conceived as a provocation. My other films are different. If people feel my other films are, or respond to them as provocation, then thats quite different. Funny Games is the only one of mine where my intention was to provoke the audience. – Michael Haneke
Its unbearable when someone changes around you. Just imagine that your life partner changes, then it is difficult to cope with. Or your mother. Or your father. They were strong and now theyre like a baby – its not so funny. – Michael Haneke