Mike Leigh is unlikely to make another movie.

The 83-year-old director has enjoyed a hugely successful career over more than six decades - but Mike is unlikely to make a follow-up to Tender Loving Care, his new comedy-drama film that stars Marion Bailey, Kate O'Flynn, Alice Bailey Johnson and Paul Jesson.

The acclaimed filmmaker told Variety: "The truth is I'm somewhat handicapped.

"Making this film was great; people were very helpful. Even if we decided to make another, it wouldn't get made for two years. I'm 83, and I don't know what state I'll be in at 85, if I'm still here.

"I say it reluctantly, because in terms of energy and ideas, it wouldn't be a problem. Those around me keep saying there must be a way. I'm sceptical."

Mike also revealed that he enjoyed working with Marion, Kate, Alice and Paul on Tender Loving Care.

The director paid a glowing tribute to the film's cast.

He said: "Kate is completely devoid of b*******.

"She and I come from within a couple of miles of each other in Manchester. She's down to earth, practical, with a massive sense of humour and no ego -- though that's true of everyone I work with.

"She's a consummate character actor, and what she does in Widow's Bay is phenomenal. A fantastic character actor, a great human being and very funny. She's a hoot.

"Marion has a great sense of character, a great sense of humour, easy to work with, a consummate character actor who can become somebody else entirely. But what she taps into here is her empathy and compassion. I agree she's underrated.

"And then Paul Jesson -- incredibly versatile, great gravitas, a joy -- he'll do anything, no fuss. The guy's 80 and he just does it. No b*******; he delivers the goods, with a great sense of humour. He and Marion have worked together with me a few times. Old team."

Mike subsequently suggested that Alice "hasn't had the breaks she should have" so far in her career.

The director said: "What she and Marion achieve is a confidence, a freedom -- and there's nothing instant about it; it has to be grown and nurtured. It's a flawless cast, down to the briefest parts.

"Bríd Brennan, a great Irish actress, appears very briefly as a madwoman on the ground who doesn't want to be interfered with -- and she just came and did me a favour. These are the cream of character actors."