How was it starring and directing in the movie?
"It was great. I’ve been doing it now for a few times. You know, it’s a challenge — but it's okay. Sometimes you have to deal with a crazy director, a high-maintence actor, and a pain-in-the-ass writer, and I’m all three...less work in a way."
The film has some interesting family dynamics; How would you describe your own?
"…happily dysfunctional."
The film is still very ‘French.' Why did you choose the New York setting?
"I never questioned it. Marion talked in the first film that she lives in New York — I wanted the next step to be the French invading Manhattan. So, that’s what happened.
Speaking of Manhattan, what are some of your favorite places in NYC?
"So many places! I go to Chelsea, I visit friends there and Nolita...really, all over."
You once said to The Guardian that Hollywood didn’t accept you. Do you really feel that way?
"No! That was bullshit. I lie all the time. I make jokes, they write it…"
The stress of it doesn’t look to be getting to you — we think you have a secret. Any beauty tips you can share?
"Beauty..hmm. Well, everyday I take a shower."
Following in Adam Goldberg's footsteps, why did you chose Chris Rock to co-star in the sequel?
"I wanted to work with him — he’s a fantastic comedian, a brilliant actor. I was like, shit, I want to make a movie for Chris. I just wanted to be his girlfriend in a film: I thought we would be a great couple.
And was he all you’d hoped for?
Oh yes, it was fantastic. He’s amazing. It was great all the way.
How was it working with Julie in the film?
She’s amazing. An amazing actress, and director. I was very lucky to get the chance to work with her.
Did she inspire you to take on new projects?
"Yeah, definitely – I’m reading things I wouldn’t have read before...so, it's all good."
You’re one busy man. Do you spend a lot of time at home?
"Well, the play was in New York, the film was in New York. I live in Jersey and I’m working a lot, but I’m home. I take my kid to school, we take the bus, all that kind of stuff."
Photo: Patrick McMullan/Courtesy of The Cinema Society