I never look a gift horse in the mouth. And I've been really, really lucky. I'm aware of that. And my career has been given to me by the people I've worked with, no question. The actors, the directors, the cinematographers, the writers, all of whom gave me the opportunity to work in the way that I have and I'm really grateful.

You just have to keep on doing what you do. It's the lesson I get from my husband; he just says, Keep going. Start by starting.

Yeah, I did need a lot of breath [to play Margaret Thatcher]. I needed much more breath than I have, after all of my expensive drama school training. I couldn't keep up with her.

Some men can maintain cragginess and weary masculinity. Women just get old.

Women are the last group anyone cares about in Hollywood.

I didn't have any confidence in my beauty when I was young. I felt like a character actress, and I still do.

I would never say don't do acting [to my kids], because I think it is a glorious profession and I am so thankful for everything it has let me express.