I thought I did play one villain, Hitler, [who is] like Lecter in some ways, but he's a mythical figure, anyway.

Israel means war and destruction and we Americans are behind this war and I am ashamed of being American.

I just remember Kathy Bates getting on the stage and "The Oscar goes to Anthony Hopkins." I looked around, because I really thought Nick Nolte would get it. I really thought Nick would get it. I was very surprised. It was neck and neck with Nick Nolte and myself. So I really was expecting that to happen, and I went in there without any expectations.

There is nothing to be scared of in movies. It's a bit scarier going on stage.

I’m not being cynical, but when you’re doing a movie you have a number of choices as an actor. Then you see it all cut together and all of those precious little pieces you put in are maybe on the cutting room floor. So, you don’t have that much control. You have very little control, in fact.

I'm having a great life. And I'm 73 and they still phone me up and ask me to do a job here and there.

I'm married. My wife, Stella - a beautiful woman. She's brought a lot of peace to my life, a lot of wisdom.