During its filming, the cast embarked on a cinematic and biographical journey that mirrors the experiences of the novel‚Äôs two lead characters. The parallels between these journeys form the central theme of the film. In artistic terms, this film is not ‚Äúthe narrative of an adventure, but rather the adventure of a narrative. On a more personal note, it could also be said to be ‚Äúthe first film version of Quixote made by flesh-and-blood Quixotes–writer-director Albert Serra

Even after several conversations with O‚ÄôGrady, I was baffled. He was completely disconnected from the abuse he inflicted. He couldn‚Äôt remember all of the facts. In some cases he wasn‚Äôt even sure he did anything wrong–Amy Berg

When I found out that I was Erin's first choice to bring her story to the screen, I thought it would be an honor to do so. I poured out my heart in an e-mail to Erin. After I read the script, I wanted to meet her, talk to her, and tell her how important I thought her story was–Hilary Swank.

The problems were born out of letting all these children get together and make decisions without any kind of parental guidance or interference, and they created the 'perfect storm' of circumstances and coincidences that allowed something to happen than never should have–Nick Cassavetes.

There are still 12,000 unaccounted Japanese soldiers on Iwo Jima. Those lives deserve a spirit, a certain respect, just as the American forces deserve respect. I feel terrible for both sides in that war and in all wars. An awful lot of innocent people are sacrificed in those situations, and if we can show something of their lives through these young men, it will be a tribute to these people who gave their lives for their country–Eastwood