I'm an actor and a writer, that's how I think of myself. Sometimes my time is divided equally, sometimes less equally, but that's what I do.

Sci-fi and fantasy used to be a TV staple throughout my childhood. Then it just stopped dead. It was seen as culty, a minority interest.

I don't care what other people think any more about me writing my own parts.

Fear is an underrated emotion. And that's why I think it's very dangerous to try and cosset children from it. A healthy scare is as good as as a healthy laugh. In fact, they're two sides of the same coin. There is a desire to shield from the knocks and bumps of reality.

The first film I can remember seeing on TV was 'The Brides of Dracula.' I was instantly hooked.

You can always expect tragedy as well as adventure; that's just how it goes.

Benedict is bumbly, sweet, affable; the nicest man you've met.