The great thing about dealing with people about whom we have historical resources, is that if the writing needs work, there's everywhere to go to enrich it.

I often think it can often be very difficult for comedians to revisit the same gag. I think Russell's a bit more than a comedian.

Most actors will tell you they have some sort of dream of doing something other than what they're doing.

It's whether they have a vision and whether they're able to communicate it. The best director is just someone who gets over-excited about doing it - they don't even have to know much about camera or acting.

I'll be your friend so long as you're not crap

I think it's quite extraordinary that people cast me as if I'm Warren Beatty: until I met my present wife, at the age of 35, you could name two girlfriends.

Looking in the mirror, staring back at me isn't so much a face as the expression of a predicament.