I can't single out one thing that influenced me. My generation was influenced greatly by the manga that came out during our childhood.

When you are completely satisfied with what you have made, you're pretty much done as a director. So when that happens, that'll sort of be the end.

For me, trying to expand the energy to make one movie in Hollywood would be the equivalent in terms of energy to making 10 movies in Japan.

Filmmaking is not a balancing act, although some directors think it is. I don't believe in it. I like ups and downs. They're the best way to translate my feelings to the screen.

You can't really make something or make a movie and feel all through the process that it's a painful thing. It's not possible to do that.

I believe that every director's films reflect their lifestyle.

I don't know if I would call it therapy, but filmmaking is really the only thing I know how to do. For me, making movies is a way to bring on change for myself, and I really enjoy that part.

I go to the dentist, not a shrink.

As a filmmaker, you've got to have a nose for what's going on culturally. You have to feel it. It doesn't have to be manga or music, but you need some kind of antenna. That's very important.

And if I'm running away from something, I try to make myself face it and overcome that initial fear. As a director, I don't think it's possible to make a movie that you really don't want to make.

If you're trying to be realistic and bring real life to the screen, you are going to have different elements. That's what I'm trying to do. As I make the movie, different elements come in naturally.

Failure could bring the best opportunity to start the most wonderful life.

I am afraid that if I start to sob, I will never stop until I shrivel up like a raisin.

Everything is false, everything is possible, everything is doubtful.

If a door slams shut it means that God is pointing to an open door further on down.

One's philosophy is not best expressed in words it is expressed in the choices one makes... and the choices we make are ultimately our responsibility.

Show the world how much you'll fight for the winners circle.

I didn't start grieving for my mother properly until I was maybe 16.

A word of advice. If, as a young man, student, you are tormented by a desire for women, it is best to get out into the fresh air as much as possible.

Are we gonna just make movies about trying to get laid over and over again or focus on something that's more relevant?

The story is a piece of work. The novel is a way of life.