Our conception of 1950s underwear is a lovely vintage aesthetic, but actually, wearing stockings with no elastic and a girdle was heavy duty.

I think it took a long time for me to realise that as much as I respect reviews and do engage with reviewers as a viewer of the theatre, television and film it's really unhelpful. Even if people make perceptive and interesting comments about your performance, it is so subjective and you will come in and change what you do, you can't help it.

I want people to think I'm sexy, but to know also that I've got an ordinary body and not feel intimidated.

I think it is kind of important to direct someone so the character is appealing, but, as an actress, I find it frustrating because I think, "Why do I have to be more likable than a man would have to be saying the same line?"

I don't really want to do things that I feel like are going to send out a message that I don't really want to sign up for.

A passion for any novel, and any character, can crystallise your ideas when you really need to be as open as possible as a performer.

I'd actually really love to review books and films and plays, but you can't be an artist and a critic. I would love it if I could.