Cult Fiction
Woman And Home, May 2001

CULT FICTION. Andrea Thompson asks four culture vultures about their favourite pursuits. (for the sake of brevity only Ms. Rampling's replies have been included here!)

1. What is your first memory of a live performance or work of art?
When I was 13, my sister and I went to see 'the Fly' at the cinema with a couple of guys we met in the street outside. I remember being terrified by the end, but couldn't show it in front of people I hardly knew.

2. Has a childhood book or classic influenced you strongly?
I never read books in my teens, but in my twenties I developed a burning passion for the classics. I was amazed by Dickens and Balzac

3. What music best captures your teenage years?
Rock and Roll kicked in when I was 16, and I was crazy about Elvis. 'Love me tender' and 'Heartbreak hotel' are particularly memorable for me.

4. Do you have any unfulfilled artisitic ambitions?
My last film, 'Under the sand', fulfilled many of my artistic ambitions. Working on a small budget film is much more intimate than being on a Hollywood blockbuster.

5. What CD or tape is in your car stereo?
'I'm in the mood for love', which accompanies the film of the same name. I adore sultry music.

6. What is your idea of a perfect evening?
Going to see a classic British production at the National Theatre. I don't like mainstream West End shows and musicals like 'Buddy'.

7. Which film or TV stars do you find particularly attractive?
I'm into old Hollywood favourites, like Paul Newman and Steve McQueen. But Johnny Deep is nice, too.

8. Which book do you have by your bedside?
'Amsterdam' by Ian McEwan. His books are beautifully written and compelling. 'Enduring love' got me hooked.

9. What was the last play or film you walked out of?
I don't usually walk out from performances, but would have no qualms about doing so if I wasn't having a good time.

10. Who would you like to play you in a film of your life?
Frances de la Tour. She's a great actress, and I challenge her to take on the job!