If you take a really good book, then the potential is for a really good film. But you've got to get it right.

Since my adaptation of Ian McEwan's 'Atonement,' I get sent a lot of novels that people think will work as movies. So every now and then I make a point of sitting down and reading a couple of them.

To seduce a woman famous for strict morals, religious fervor and the happiness of her marriage: what could possibly be more prestigious?

My problem is I'm a man of no convictions - at least, I think I am.

There was a moment in the early '80s when I wanted to work on films and wanted to live in L.A.

I think there's something degrading about having a husband for a rival. It's humiliating if you fail and commonplace if you succeed.

It's great to get out of the study and work with real living and breathing people.