I've always used my own personal emotions and things that I've gone through in my life to build a character. The work that I do before a film feels almost like therapy, between me and whoever I'm playing.

In movies, I hope women aren't always portrayed as sex symbols. People like Drew Barrymore are paving the way for girls my age. Hopefully I can pave the way for young actresses, too.

It's interesting to watch people go through it in something like this. I mean, what other then Melancholia films do they portray depression in?

I've seen 'karma' slap people in the face. You have to be good to people. It really does come around.

I think you see in people's eyes what they've been through. Anything in their lives shows up in their eyes.

It's always nice when people appreciate your work because it means you've affected them, which is great. And so that feels good.

When I go away to do a movie, I bring the blanket I've had since I was a little girl. It helps me sleep. I also always bring my laptop so I can E-mail friends. And I bring my dog, Beauty, wherever I can.