I think that's what distinguishes Schmidt, really. In the movies now, so much of what is appealing to an audience is the dramatic or has to do with science fiction, and Schmidt is simply human. There's no melodrama; there's no device, It's just about a human being.

I can't hit on women in public any more. I didn't decide this; it just doesn't feel right at my age.

Well, a girlfriend once told me never to fight with anybody you don't love.

There's only two people in your life you should lie to... the police and your girlfriend.

There's only two people in your life you should lie to... the police and your girlfriend.

If men are honest, everything they do and everywhere they go is for a chance to see women.

I never had a policy about marriage. I got married very young in life and I always think in all relationships, I've always thought that it's counterproductive to have a theory on that.

Early on, if I was alone two three nights in a row, I'd start writing poems about suicide.

It's a slight stretch of the imagination but most people are alike in most ways so I've never had any trouble identifying with the character that I'm playing.

The minute that you're not learning I believe you're dead.

My motto is: more good times.

Beer, it's the best damn drink in the world.

I'm Irish. I think about death all the time.

I'll tell you one thing: Don't ever give anybody your best advice, because they're not going to follow it.

I don't have any fear of intimacy, but rather thrive on it, which is rare in a public person.

If I go into a restaurant there's a very good chance that I'm going to spend my time being the mayor. If I want to have a good time, I'm happier having dinner here.