Some people make movies for money or glory and will take any subject people offer them. But I cannot do that. I need to feel the story and make it mine.

When African-Americans come to France, the French show them more consideration than they would show an African or a Black Caribbean. When African-Americans come to France, the French people are like, 'Oh, wow. Oh my God.' But if it's an African, they're like, 'Whatever.' It's all because of the past, because of our history.

Francois Truffaut was my godfather on 'Sugar Cane Alley.' He believed in me and in that story, and told everyone that it should be made.

I believe that the American audience is not so dumb that they wouldn't be interested in a black story.

My grandmother always used to tell me, if I had a problem, I was only allowed to complain for one second. Then I had to take action.

In the days when I wasn't being taken seriously, I wore long skirts - very conservative. But now, I dress any way I want to.