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
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
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
I love actors, both my parents were actors, and the work with actors is the most enjoyable part of making a film. Its important that they feel protected and are confident they wont be betrayed. When you create that atmosphere of trust, its in the bag – the actors will do everything to satisfy you. – Michael Haneke