Paris Match: You were about to direct "Hung Up", the video of the single for Madonna's latest album. You did not do it. What happened ?
David LaChapelle: I had written the scenario, was paid for the concept. But after "Rize", when I started to analyze what made me happy or not, I understood that she was not the person with who I wished to collaborate. She is nice when you are alone with her, but when you work for her, she can be very... I don't find the word... nasty. She is with people she employs. I didn't want to be tortured.

Paris Match: She would have done it ?

David LaChapelle: Yes. I don't have anything against difficulties. But there, that would not have been pleasant. I would not have had fun. However it is the environment which makes that my photographs are what they are. I never force people. There must have joy on the set. With her, this ingredient would have missed. Even when we were only talking about the project, she has been very hard. There is a part of cruelty in her.

Paris Match: You are one of rare people to speak about Madonna in so tough terms...

David LaChapelle: I am free. All must not be sweet. I don't like weak ways either. I don't speak about that, I speak about propriety. Shooting a video, that means weeks of collaboration close to the person... If the situation is negative, it's better to avoid it if you can. I can.