Look at Judi Dench, who's brilliant in whatever bloody job she does.

I've always liked new writing.

I adore Bette Davis and Vivien Leigh, but more because they were good actresses. That’s what makes me interested in them, that they didn’t present themselves as idols they were just doing their jobs.

You can only do your best. That's all you can do. And if it isn't good enough, it isn't good enough.

I was brought up a Catholic, so I take no pleasure in guilt.

We're all unique as actors. To yourself, you are unique, you have to think 'I'm me, I'm not going to bunch myself with other people.' Agents and producers have to get you into a box, to accommodate their limited imaginations.

Children should always be brave and do something about bullying. Its not okay to stand by and let it happen. Bullies thrive off secrecy. Children should tell someone if they see someone being bullied.

Looking back, there is nothing wrong with that peace, love and equality that the hippies espoused. In many ways, we have regressed because they were into organic food, back to nature, make love not war, be good to all men, share and share alike - which is what many are talking about now.

I worked in rep for six years, then I came to London and to the National Theatre. What's better than that