Dame Kristin Scott Thomas: ‘We need to help the next generation be better than we are’

Kristin, tell us about the defining role of your career?

Actually, I don’t think there’s been one. There have been ones that made me a better actress. Some I learned a lot more from. I still consider my career a work in progress – the idea is to keep moving, moving, moving. But there have been important ones – roles that have brought me to the audience’s attention: the English Patient, Four Weddings and a Funeral, more recently Slow Horses. All of these things have been important. Brick by brick, you build a career.

What inspires you now? What gets you excited?

Well, I’m moving into directing, which is exciting, thrilling, frustrating, brilliant – all of the above. But I think the most inspiring thing is collaboration. When I was a young actress, I felt I had to do what I was told. I didn’t dare speak out. Now I realise that I can, that there’s so much to be had in conversation, that talking – with the director, with writers – leads to something more exciting, more creative.

What does it feel like to be a director, having been on the other side of the camera for so long?

I’ve only done it once, and it was overwhelming to begin with, but thrilling to see scenes take form. I think I realise now that talent is a rare thing and should be treasured and looked after and stretched.

What gives you hope in the world?

We’re in such a crazy place right now – things are all so worrying. And yet I know there are fantastic people all over the place, people who’ve got nothing to do with politics, with the craziness and the greed. And becoming a grandmother is heaven. Your faith in humanity is restored when you see these little people who are waking up to all the good bits in the world. The role of the parent is much more important than when I was doing it; how to guide your children through these times is a difficult task. I think we should be giving parents all the help they need. That’s the next generation, and they need to be better than we are.

Dame Kristen Scott Thomas wears: (first look) blouse and trousers by Dior, brooch by Dior Joaillerie, earrings by Pomellato, shoes by Christian Louboutin; (second look): jacket and trousers by Burberry, shoes by Jimmy Choo, earrings by Dior Joaillerie. Hair by Louis Byrne at Premier Hair. Makeup by Adam De Cruz using Hourglass. Styling assistant: Sam Deaman