Emma Thompson

Children don't need much advice but they really do need to be listened to and not just with half an ear.

I have to write for everyone. What really fascinates me is how you make films or make stories that can genuinely be shared by different groups.

Its unfortunate and I really wish I wouldn't have to say this, but I really like human beings who have suffered. They're kinder.

I don't like to watch myself on screen because in my mind there is a touch of George Clooney about me, but when I see it, there is more than a little Donkey from 'Shrek' about me.

I have no neighbours other than animals and Joshua Trees.

As a young child my attention span was, as I remember it, rather short.