[Winning an Oscar] was a beautiful thing that happened. It is in my house, and every time I look at, I see all the people who are a part of it, all the people who gave me opportunities to work, gave me opportunities to make a living at this thing [acting] that was a dream for me, growing up. And I got to do it, and then again and again and again, and make a living out of being an actress.

I love New York, but being there the whole year, it gets a little crazy with the speed and rhythm of things.

The most important lesson I've learned in this business is how to say no. I have said no to a lot of temptations, and I am glad I did.

You cannot live your life looking at yourself from someone else's point of view.

Awards are great, as you get to meet up with friends and colleagues from your industry - a sort of reunion.

I like roles that people don't recognize me in.

I'm strong and opinionated. Those qualities brought me a lot of problems since I was a little girl in school, saying 'I don't agree' and fighting with the children. It's part of my curiosity for life.