If people walk out of the movie and they think about it, then that's quite something.

It sounds corny, but I think people need stories to process the world. That's our business. That's the job we're in. We tell stories.

The actors in Britain are incredible, and I didn't appreciate that until I got there. They interpret your words and you realize how deliberate and thoughtful they are. There are great American actors, too, don't get me wrong, but the technique that British actors have is something really special.

The challenge is creating a character that's rich and interesting to warrant following for a number of years.

As a journalist you have to think quickly, you're exposed to all types of people and situations and you've got to synthesize your thoughts in a very clear and concise way and write them down quickly. Those were all things that have proven really useful in my life as a television writer.

I like projects that are entertaining, where I'm emotionally engaged and there's something to think about afterwards.

Let's make really good stories that people get something out of. That's the one common denominator with everything I try to do.