Sofia Coppola says she knows a project is worth making when it scares her

Sofia Coppola says she still feels nervous whenever she begins a new movie, but considers that fear part of what makes the work meaningful.

"It's always scary — and someone told me it's not worthwhile unless it's scary, because you're invested in it," Coppola told host Ina Garten.

Coppola said she sees no point in doing something that doesn't challenge her, even if starting a new film can leave her feeling like she has to find her footing all over again.

However, once production begins, Coppola said she becomes absorbed in bringing her vision to life with the crew.

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Coppola also said she avoids reading bad reviews, though she recently came across a box of negative reviews of her 2006 film "Marie Antoinette."

However, she said having some self-doubt can be useful: "I don't trust anyone that doesn't have a little self-doubt. I think you need a little to keep you on your toes."

In January 2024, Barbara Corcoran said that feeling like an impostor had fueled her success, since it pushed her to work harder and, in the process, build confidence.

In October 2024, Anna Kendrick said she felt similarly out of her depth when she pitched to direct Netflix's true-crime film "Woman of the Hour." After her first pitch, the producers asked her to try again the next day with more confidence.