Brenda Blethyn quotes:

I think behind closed doors people behave differently no matter what period we're looking at, because people have to stand up straight in public but can slouch behind closed doors - can you imagine wearing those corsets?

I like the enthusiasm but not the insincerity of Los Angeles.

Being a secretary was considered a very good job in those days.

I've done a lot of costume drama and theatre - the National Theatre and In fact, most of my work at the theatre, at the National Theatre anyway, was period.

Even if I hadn't have been nominated for an Oscar, to have won the Golden Glove was just fantastic.

The academy awards in England; it's a classy affair as well.

My dad gave me threepence to pay the fine but I spent it on a Wagon Wheel

Maybe wanting to retire is my ambition.

I've made six films since I made Secrets and Lies but I still live in London and I'd love to do theater.

I think people often confuse success with fame and stardom.

I hate that people think going to the theatre is a special occasion. I wish people would treat it as normally as going to the cinema.

I always considered myself very successful even before the success of Secrets and Lies.

When I left drama school, there were dozens of rep theatres you could apply to where you got a good training.

I always think 12 times before saying anything.

Before every performance, I think I am about to keel over.

I've never done a big studio film, I've only ever done little ones.

I knew Secrets and Lies was a great film, but I didn't expect it to get the attention it did because none of his other films had and I thought they were just as good.

Everyone the world over talks about British actors and British talent and I think that's because we were trained - until now - in theatre.

Anything where people have to work together makes me cry.

In fact at home I sometimes like to be quiet and hear the sounds of the world outside.

People say to me that I cant be nervous because Ive had such a wealth of experience, but I tell them that I have never done this particular part before.

Everyone the world over talks about British actors and British talent and I think thats because we were trained - until now - in theatre.

At the risk of sounding naff, it is having hope fulfilled