A philosopher once asked, Are we human because we gaze at the stars, or do we gaze at them because we are human?

All English people have a fascination with Jack the Ripper. I don't know why, because it's so dreadful, but such a strange, endearing part of our culture. Morbid fascination sums it up.

My idea of growing old gracefully is probably different to other people's!

It's crazy that most high-end designers stop at a size 14.

After starting as a journalist for newspapers and magazines, I began to write books and had success with a novel and four nonfiction books for young adults.

You need to be invested in what happens. The characters are your conduit to the story. Many modern horror films are fun but not frightening because one has not connected with the characters.

I like it when characters respond to things that are outrageous and movie-like in an authentic way.

I really enjoy the challenge of adapting.

Honestly, I think most directors are about, 'Let's do the most fun and effective thing here and figure out how afterwards.'

I see my role as a translator, telling the story that's in the book using the more visual language of film.

When it's something you really adore, I think you don't want to be the one who accidentally writes a crap episode.

I love the Empire Awards. It is really different and laid back.

I think it's part of everybody's childhood, there are some wonderful Hammer movies and there are some dreadful ones.

Quite honestly, I'm so happy to be Jonathan's wife and my children's mum that anything else is a bonus.

I've been really lucky not to have a duff experience with a director.

I think when you really adore something, and you've grown up with it, you almost don't want to be part of it. I want to enjoy it as a fan and don't want to ruin the magic.

I don't think anyone has ever been corrupted by a T-shirt.

The only moment I become aware of being the only woman in a meeting is when actresses are being discussed. If someone's critical of how a woman looks, they turn to me and apologize.

Country roads, take me home, to the place I belong, West Virginia, mountain momma, take me home, country road.

There's video footage of my 10th birthday where I'm wearing, like, a little pink T-shirt. Then my dad comes in brandishing a copy of 'Eraserhead,' going, 'Look what we've got for tonight!'