David L. Wolper

My philosophy as a filmmaker is to inform and entertain at the same time. And when I went away from documentaries into miniseries like 'Roots,' I did the reverse. Instead of just entertaining, I want to inform at the same time.

I've asked every grammar schoolteacher in the nation to have their students write on the meaning of the Statue of Liberty. Wouldn't it be wonderful if the winning kid got up to the microphone and, in front of the world, had to dig into a pocket to pull out a crumpled sheet of paper containing the words that would move us all?

I couldn't get my first film on the air. The first film I did was called 'The Race For Space,' about the U.S.-Soviet space race. The networks had a policy that I found out about the hard way. I even had a sponsor for my program, but the networks wouldn't put it on because it was independently produced.

We couldn't predict what would happen with 'Roots.' You knew there were powerful moments that were going to affect people. We were making the film while the book was being completed. We were fortunate because the hardcover book was out and on the best-seller list. The heat was still on.

There's a fine line between patriotism and corn.

I don't fall in love with inanimate objects. I don't bond with them. I only fall in love with people.

My initial goal for the 1984 opening ceremonies was a show that would be majestic, inspirational, and emotional - a 20 goosebump experience.

I believe that religion and politics should not mix. Both should be a part of somebody's life - but not together.

Relax! Life is beautiful!

I did not intend for there to be an incisive historical lesson in 'North and South.' Basically, it's just a good, juicy story.

My definition of a producer is 'the man with the dream.'

The minute I went into business, I was a success, and I've done well ever since.