Quality Control
While Sam has been very picky about the roles he accepts, his creative control goes even deeper than that. Sam has, on occasion, been involved in writing scripts and screenplays when necessary. And rumor has it that he never backs down when he disagrees with a director. And sometimes, those agreements can cause tension.
Sam has spoken about not shying away from a clash with the powers behind a movie’s production. He was quoted saying, “I’d rather be a pain in the ass and make better art.” And you know what, he’s right! Wouldn’t you rather, as a viewer, see better work at the expense of some director or producer’s hurt feelings or shouting on set? I sure would.