Reclusive filmmaker is a complicated and contradictory man, colleagues say

Love for a goofy comedy is one of many paradoxes about Malick, the film world's version of J.D. Salinger. The director dislikes being photographed, avoids public appearances - he skipped the premiere of his highly anticipated, long-delayed "Tree" last week here at the Cannes Film Festival - and turns down all interview requests (including this one), creating an impression of a cranky, precious artist.