A make-up artist I know polished her Oscar and it lost its lustre. But if you don't polish it, it doesn't tarnish.

It's fatal to talk about acting. It sounds faintly ridiculous if you start analysing it.

When you research someone, you actually get beyond your own preconceptions and become aware of the human being other than the image. You become empathetic and sympathetic in turn.

I'm not that comfortable with actors receiving honours, partly because I think they ought to go to those who really help others.

I like being able to go to the supermarket and go on the Tube and have an ordinary domestic life. I'd hate to have to protect myself. I'm quite lucky that I can carry on without any intrusions. I don't get given a hard time by anyone.

I like reflecting the culture I understand best, spotting the idiosyncrasies of British people and revealing them to an audience in a way that amuses is what I find fun.