“The [film] was turned down by thirty-one distributors around the world, including nine in the United States. It was only as a result of the Oscar that this film received worldwide distribution and was seen by millions in countries around the world, many of whom never knew about the great tragedy of the Holocaust.”
“I could give countless further examples that show why the honorable institution of the Academy deserves our support and gratitude. I believe that to have the Academy censor films based on their content and message would only serve to weaken this institution, which has flourished on the principles of freedom of expression and on a profound belief in the integrity of its members to vote and decide what films are truly deserving of recognition.”
“It has nothing to do with commercial success. You cannot calculate in your head how to put the mosaic together to make a commercial film: that's out of the question.”
“I chose Sony Classics, not just because of their practical experience, not just because of their wisdom in marketing, but mainly because of their integrity.”
