You never undertake a project because you think other people will like it - because that way lies madness - but rather because you believe in it.

Critics should be to actors what ornithologists are to birds: they can write all they want, but it shouldn't affect them.

Twitter has restored my faith in humanity. I thought I'd hate it, but while there are lots of knobheads, there are even more lovely people. It delights me how witty and friendly most people are.

I'm good at being on my own. As a kid, I was always in my room alone, so I have a high threshold for it. If I'm bored, I'll read. Hanging around doesn't go well with me.

I used to be mouthy. It was all to do with being a northerner and from Manchester, which was suddenly a big deal when I was in my 20s. When I read some of the interviews I did back then, I cringe.

It's horrible to get a cameraphone shoved in your face every time you walk out the door.

Success, however you judge what that even means, brings with it certain pressures.