I adore Bette Davis and Vivien Leigh, but more because they were good actresses. That’s what makes me interested in them, that they didn’t present themselves as idols; they were just doing their jobs.

I was brought up a Catholic, so I take no pleasure in guilt.

Agents and producers have to get you into a box to accommodate their limited imaginations.

I worked in rep for six years, then I came to London and to the National Theatre. What's better than that

Chaotic people often have chaotic lives, and I think they create that. But if you try and have an inner peace and a positive attitude, I think you attract that.

Look at Judi Dench, who's brilliant in whatever bloody job she does.

If you're at an award ceremony, you're against your mates.