People seem to have this idea that I've always been very ambitious. Nothing could be further from the truth.

It takes courage to recognize the real as opposed to the convenient.

And then it was working with Bob Hoskins, who I had never worked with before - except radio. It was like being given a wonderful meal - full of the things you love most.

I like to push myself beyond the limit every now and again.

I was in Yorkshire. We were a family of five and I used to be sent sometimes to get the rations for the week and was easily able to carry them back. It was like one egg and a tiny bit of tea.

The more I do, the more frightened I get. But that is essential. Otherwise why would I go on doing it?

Some things you know about, you know what the ingredients are - maybe not all of them. But it's up to you to put in the amount. It's up to the director to nag you until you get it right.