I went further and further back through the centuries to get a sense of perspective but now at least I understand why Irish history evokes such strong passions and emotions.

I know that Madonna is not a first-time filmmaker, but I have worked with a lot of first time filmmakers and I have worked with a lot of inexperienced film directors so that never has particularly worried me - I find it quite exciting - but I have never worked with a director who has had so little experience of directing who was so prepared.

It felt good doing a physical job, and going home each evening feeling like I had really done a day's work.

I'm more interested in enjoying my life and looking after my family than being hugely successful.

I've never done anything comedic. In all the years I've been an actor, I've never delivered one comedic line.

I find it incredibly romantic that people should fight for a cause they believe in and be prepared to die for it.

Baddies always do get the best lines, that's the honest truth.