James is a good actor, but he found the mask very constraining and claustrophobic.

Without sounding conceited about it, it was hard but it did not seem like such a huge leap, because I had done a lot of big films and been around enough talented directors to know what to do if I was in their position.

I've been an assistant director for a long time and I guess everyone who comes out of film school hopes they'll be a director.

I didn't set out to make it about any one particular government or regime. It's an allegorical film, but there are certain things I've obviously put in there that you can take.

These people were a little mental.

She's an amazing actress. You need to believe the journey that character goes on, and I think Natalie lets you really believe it. She's your guide through the narrative. It's really about her presence and her intelligence.