There have been so many people who have said to me, 'You can't do that,' but I've had an innate belief that they were wrong. Be unwavering and relentless in your approach.

I realize as you age the less makeup you wear the younger you look.

In Monster's Ball I went nude, which was scary, but I took the chance and that's how I like to approach my career.

I've learned my tricks. I know what I like. I do not wait around. I initiate. And I'm not all about frequency - I favor intensity.

It gave me strength and toughness because I had to face reality, no matter how uncomfortable or painful it was.

I don't know why, but I respond well to tortured characters.

Just to be true to myself, which is why I did this movie. I figured everyone was going to freak out and say, 'Why would you do that after Dorothy Dandridge?' My answer is 'Because I can.' And that feels really good to be comfortable saying that.