What is my idea of happiness?
The very concept of happiness can be misleading. But welcoming flashes of happiness every day, even from small things, is my discipline and my art.
What is my greatest fear?
My greatest fear is wasting time on insignificant things. It happens and when I notice it I blame myself. But not too much, because there is a risk of becoming the Savonarola of our century.
What is the trait that I most deplore in myself?
I’m methodical. A winning trait at work, but a little less so in private life, as even my hippie cat points out to me.
Which living persons in my profession do i most admire?
All the TV people (some magnificent, some less so) with whom I have worked up to now and who gave me the opportunity to learn a profession that still amuses and excites me.
What is my greatest extravagance?
I have always traveled the world and I allow myself the luxury of a small-big trip every year. But, I’d like to point out, that I am not a tourist, I am a traveller. The first rule to really get to know a new country is to follow its inhabitants in their daily lives, assimilate their habits, eat what they eat and then leave with one more piece of the great puzzle of life in the suitcase.
On what occasion would I lie?
I would lie only to make someone not feel bad… and to avoid a fine from the traffic policeman. I live in Rome, let’s not forget that.
What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work?
Ridiculous competitiveness and people making careers without merit.
When and where was I the happiest, in my work?
In Palestine, several years ago. I was there to film a documentary and together with the crew we managed to prevent the settlers’ bulldozers from destroying a house inhabited by two elderly people and their grandchildren. A moment that I will never forget.
If I could, what would I change about myself?
Physically? I’m now fond of my wrapper. Characteristically, however, I tend to put too much trust in others, I know that. But, ultimately, I prefer not to become cynical. Do good and forget about it:
what you sow in one meadow can always flourish elsewhere.
What is my greatest achievement in work?
Being free to choose my projects.
Where would I most like to live?
I worked and lived in London for many years, but, now that I’m back in Rome, I’d like to stay and enjoy it for a while.
What is my most treasured possession?
A beautiful Victorian ring that my grandmother left me.
What is my most marked characteristic?
People who know me tell me it’s my creative energy.
What is my most inspirational location, in my city?
The church of San Giovanni alle mura latine, a little-known jewel that emanates a regenerating beauty
What is my favorite place to eat and drink, in my city?
The terrace of the Hotel Locarno, built in 1925 and which has retained all its charm. I recommend it especially for cocktails.
What books influenced my life and how?
The New Thought, by William Walker Atkinson.It made me understand that there is a very strong connection between what we want and what we can achieve. And, if we stay focused on our essence, we can control this connection. More simply, where there is a will, there is a way.
You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day?
Two albums: Foxtrot, by Genesis and Kiss me, Kiss me, Kiss me by The Cure.
Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?
Miss Fran Kubelik, from Billy Wilder’s The Apartment. She is not afraid of her own frailties and chases her dreams .Despite failures and everything else, she manages to firmly believe in happy endings.
Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?
All those who give up a little on themselves to dedicate time to others.
Which movie would i recommend to see once in a lifetime?
Rome Open City by Roberto Rossellini. History must be told by winners and especially by losers. A masterpiece, always relevant.
What role play stories in my life and work?
Knowing how to tell a story is an art. knowing how to surrender to one’s history is an important conquest.
What do the words ‘You are the storyteller of your own life’ to me?
These are the words that exactly describe my approach to life. The ability to marvel at small everyday things, the ability to make them worthy of a story, are my greatest ambitions. Are you asking me if I always succeed? Not always, but I never give up.
Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime?
Still waiting for them to come out…
Which people or companies would I like to work with ?
My secret dream? Coffee with Stephen King and talking and writing about our fears.
What project am I looking forward to work on?
A documentary about Donovan, focusing on music, art and spirituality.
Where can you see me or my work?
The Theatre – Hosted by Peter Coyle Cristiana Turchetti (acast.com)
What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?
It is my Mantra.
Which creative professionals should Peter invite to tell their story?
Mark Paytress, writer/journalist
Paolo Luciani, TV writer and film critic
Andy Duke, musician and producer
How can you contact me?
The Heroine's Journey 