Q: “The other thing that seems to be a constant in both [The Good Shepherd and A Bronx Tale] is the relationship between fathers and sons. And I wonder if it’s something you think about a lot.” A: “Yes.” Q: “You have four sons.” A: “I do.” Q: “And your father [artist Robert De Niro Sr.] was a big influence on your life?” A: “Yes.” Q: Do you consider this a political film? A: I don’t know. I wouldn’t say.” Q: “You don’t know or you wouldn’t say?” A: “I don’t know. I think people should see it the way they want.” — The Good Shepherd director Robert De Niro speaking to Time editor Belinda Luscombe.