People who are exceptionally intelligent are often lonely because there are few people as intelligent as them. I have two little children and everyone says: 'I hope they're doing well in school. I hope they're bright.' And I think: why would anyone want their children to be the brightest? Academia is a lonely world.

If you're constantly frightened of being unhappy, how bloody exhausting must that be?

I used to say that theatre was my favourite thing. But the more I do film, the more I appreciate it.

I use my awards as doorsteps. Others are in the office or in little cubbyholes in our library – they go between the books, because they actually look like arty pieces

I love London, and it's a privilege for my children to grow up here.

I'm a very positive person. My grandmother taught me that happiness is both a skill and a decision, and you are responsible for the outcome.

I've often sat down with people talking about a film I've been in, and they haven't realized I was in it.