Woody Allen has directed about 40 films, keeping filming schedules tight and producing his work on relatively small budgets, traits that have endeared him to both actors and studios.

And now he’s given us the reason why:

“You’ll think I’m being facetious, but I’m not a dedicated filmmaker. I’m lazy,” he told a news conference for his latest film “Cassandra’s Dream.” “I want to shoot and go home, and get on with life.”

Allen, whose “laziness” has netted him three Oscars for directing and writing, added, “I could probably make better work if I was a little more conscientious.”

Colin Farrell, who stars along with Ewan McGregor in the film, lauded Allen’s habit of getting scenes done quickly.

“I think we did about as many shots for this (entire) film as I did for one scene in ‘Miami Vice’”, Farrell said. “Vice”, released last year, was directed by notorious perfectionist Michael Mann.

Photos/REUTERS. Allen at Toronto press conference (left.) Allen and actors Colin Farrell and Ewan McGregor arrive at the Cinema Palace in Venice (right).