A lot of times [in the movie industry], women are relegated to playing the wife or girlfriend or daughter.

But there are still only certain film genres where a woman can stand out, be heroic, be the centerpiece.

My family comes first, and you have to be in charge to be able to protect that. You have to be the one who says no or you don't have a life, which is what I found out the first time.

You'll never know what you're capable of if you don't try.

I think that's what growing up is all about. It's about taking on new responsibilities and learning what you can handle, and learning what you can't.

Some people feel like you have to cement your love.

When you've played Buffy - who's such a strong female role model - it's really hard for another female character to compare to her.