Every percentage point means tens of billions of dollars.

The concept that the employer is going to take care of things is clearly going by the wayside. We've largely shifted to a defined-contribution approach to pensions. With health care, that's clearly the direction we're heading, for the same reasons.

We're throwing a tremendous amount of dollars at people like me. I have a nice job and a nice salary. I'm appreciative, but in truth I don't need it nearly as much as someone who is working at the minimum wage who isn't getting that tax break.

intended to forestall any more immediate response.

I deserved those penalties, but sometimes you try to be proactive. It didn't work.

Go out and make something that reflects your interests, your taste, and your ideas. No one will pay you to make something until you have a few things you can show that you've directed. I got my start by making short films on my own.