GEMMA ARTERTON

The winner of our award for Outstanding Performance chooses parts that are ‘all about the complexities of character’ (page 188). After her critically acclaimed performance in The Escape and the forthcoming Vita and Virginia, she is currently preparing to start playing the role of Dusty Springfield in

So Much Love.

Your woman of the year

‘My pal Jessica Swale, who directed her first feature this year. It has been a real privilege to see her rise to every challenge.’

A woman who has inspired you ‘Björk. Her unapologetic uniqueness is a constant inspiration.’

A woman you call to have fun with ‘My sister, Hannah. It’s almost like we have a telepathic understanding of how to make each other laugh.’

A woman you would like to have met ‘Nell Gwynn because she was the naughtiest and wittiest of them all.’