And it's a human need to be told stories. The more we're governed by idiots and have no control over our destinies, the more we need to tell stories to each other about who we are, why we are, where we come from, and what might be possible.
I've never been able to plan my life. I just lurch from indecision to indecision.
The more we're governed by idiots and have no control over our destinies, the more we need to tell stories to each other about who we are, why we are, where we come from, and what might be possible. Or, what's impossible? What's a fantasy?
I do take my work seriously and the way to do that is not to take yourself too seriously.
Actors are agents of change. A film, a piece of theater, a piece of music, or a book can make a difference. It can change the world.
Nothing gives me as much pleasure as travelling. I love getting on trains and boats and planes.
If only life could be a little more tender and art a little more robust.
It would be wonderful to think that the future is unknown and sort of surprising.
I think every English actor is nervous of a Newcastle accent.
I want to swim in both directions at once. Desire success, court failure.
There's a voice inside you that tells you what you should do.
I always feel that when I come to Edinburgh, in many ways I am coming home.
I think there should be laughs in everything. Sometimes, it's a slammed door, a pie in the face or just a recognition of our frailties.
I'm still living the life where you get home and open the fridge and there's half a pot of yogurt and a half a can of flat Coca-Cola.
I think there's some connection between absolute discipline and absolute freedom.
Talent is an accident of genes - and a responsibility.
Acting touches nerves you have absolutely no control over.
I have a photograph at home of Fred Astaire from the knees down with his feet crossed. It's kind of inspiring because it reminds me his feet were bleeding at the end of rehearsals. Yet when you watch him, all you see is freedom. It's a reminder of what the job is about in general, not just being in musicals.
I am the character you are not supposed to like.
I never talk about 'Harry Potter' because I think that would rob children of something that's private to them. I think too many things get explained, so I hate talking about it.
