Helen Mirren: 'New film felt like a holiday'

Dame Helen Mirren took on her latest role because she wanted a "holiday".

The legendary actress plays the supporting role of Ida in director Rowan Joffe's new movie 'Brighton Rock' and Helen admitted the chance to take part in a movie without playing the lead was a dream come true.

She told BANG Showbiz: "I like the idea of playing a supporting role, the last few films I've done I've been the lead and in a way it was like a holiday for me.

"Ida is a force of nature but also the voice of justice. She's the revengeful queen if you like."

Helen stars alongside rising stars Sam Riley and Andrea Riseborough and she was thrilled to be there at the beginning of what she predicts will be "spectacular" careers for both of them.

She said: "It was very, very inspiring. I was really lucky, I got to work with two of the best young actors out there. I would say among the top three and it's exciting to be here early on in their careers and watch where they go from here. They're both brilliant in the film.

"They were very inspiring both of them, very wonderful.

"Andrea was just a revelation, she's brilliant absolutely brilliant and it's great to be a witness at the beginning of a very spectacular career."