UPDATED 2/19: Bill Paxton on 'Big Love' and remaking 'Swiss Family Robinson'

Bill Paxton (right) with Scott Thomson/Photo by Paul Videla

UPDATED 2/19: From Herald.com homepage: 'Bill Paxton dreams of remaking ‘Swiss Family Robinson’

Actor/director Bill Paxton, perhaps best known for his roles in such blockbuster films as "Twister," "Apollo 13" and "Titanic," spoke to digital filmmaking students at Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota for about an hour today.

Paxton's pal and "Twister" (see clip below) co-star Scott Thomson also participated.

The Q&A remained mostly academic.

"I don't consider myself a filmmaker," Paxton said. "I consider myself an image-maker."

He then praised Ringling.

"This is the best school of its kind in the country — in the world," Paxton said.

Later, the famed actor fielded questions about his often risque, critically acclaimed HBO series "Big Love," which has earned him several Golden Globe nominations and ends this season.

"How do you prepare for the sex scenes in 'Big Love?'" asked a female student.

Laughter filled the room.

Long pause.

"There are many preparations," Paxton said as he flashed a grin.

Following the group Q&A, I sat down with him for a one-on-one interview.

Paxton dished on plans to direct the definitive remake of "Swiss Family Robinson" (see clip below).

And said whether he'd consider using Ringling's new post-production facilities, which are being financed by a $1.75 million grant.

My feature on Paxton should appear on the Herald homepage and in print early Saturday.