When actors give their input, it can be very ego-driven, and directors are scared of that.

Acting is really scary, but it's also challenging, fun, hard work. There's always an element of improvisation with every actor, even when something is really scripted.

I needed to stay in the character.

I think in some ways you learn more from the things you don't like than the things you do.

So many of us have our asses watching stupid reality shows, desensitizing our brains. Like, "Wow, isn't that dumb, but I'm so entertained right now! That's the stupidest thing I've seen in my life - give me more of it!" You know what I'm talking about. I turn on the television and I'm like, "This is so bad, but I cannot get my fucking eyes off of it." It's not good.

I saw the main character played by Mads Mikkelsen, and he's amazing. Hannibal had that going for it.

You always have nerves. And it's important to respect your nerves and your doubts. And then you have to ultimately overcome them.