[Mills hired him because of the actor's willingness to be vulnerable, and for Pucci's apparent good looks.] Lou has a fragile, effeminate face. But he's totally straight, ... And Justin isn't gay, but he's not macho, either. He's in that weird land in between.

The whole set was very intense, ... Lou and Kelli have some weird thing with each other.

[Keanu was just one of the guys, according to Mills, staying in a crappy condo in suburban Oregon like everyone else during the shoot.] He never said in any way, 'I'm special' or 'I'm different,' ... Working with Keanu is a lot like working with one of my electricians or a grip. It's just someone who wants to come to work. The worst thing you can do is pay too much attention to him.

There is a drunkenness to grief, which is good.

I've always known that I love directing but I was really aware of it while making 'Beginners.' I am my happiest when I'm on set directing. I am also my kindest. When the actors get in front of the camera, it makes them very vulnerable. I am so in love with them for trying so hard.

I didn't ask him to take his shirt off. I couldn't tell you. But he looks in good shape.