Cinema Quote by Melvin Van Peebles

The studios didn't really take independent films seriously, till 'Sweetback' was such a financial success.

— Melvin Van Peebles

Many of us had this idea of doing independent film, of making personal, relevant films, as opposed to Hollywood fluff. I directed a few.

— Robert Kane Pappas

I'd like to make really important movies, like American Beauty. I was really proud to be a part of that movie.

— Allison Janney

When we talk about 'Sweetback,' yes, it stars the whole black movement, but it's also the first time an independent film made that kind…

— Melvin Van Peebles

I was doing 'Twin Peaks,' and Columbia called and said they wanted me to do 'Gladiator.' I thought it had the potential to be…

— James Marshall

I love independent film so much, and that's kind of where I made my mark.

— Billy Bob Thornton

There's a strange sense of accomplishment in making an independent film. Everything's against you; there's no time, and even less money - you bring…

— Eric Stoltz

I started making films purely based on what I would like to see.

— Nicolas Winding Refn

I made it for myself - it was a film I wanted to see.

— Donna Deitch

I didn't think I'd be getting my own stand-alone film.

— Ray Fisher

I did very much enjoy being part of an independent film. It was just the energy.

— Kylie Minogue

I was delighted with the film [Payback: Debt and the Shadow Side of Wealth]; it almost made me want to be a film-maker!

— Margaret Atwood