While she continues to pick up lead roles and prizes, she knows it's tough for many women in the industry.

"The many awards aren't a job guarantee," she assured German magazine Gala.

"In Hollywood you still have to look like a Victoria's Secret model at 40 years old in order to get hired. I think that's awful."

Privately, Meryl claims to live an "unspectacular" life, with her favourite activities including knitting and reading in a comfy chair in her living room.

She's been married to Don Gummer since 1978 but admits there have been a few disagreements along the way.

"Healthy arguments are unavoidable - as long as you don't get personal," she reasoned.

Meryl often ends up working with younger stars, such as Anna Kendrick and Chris Pine in Into the Woods. They both felt honoured to be teamed with Meryl, but she gets embarrassed when people treat her like acting royalty.

"I've been in this industry for a long time, but I haven't lost my passion," she smiled.

"Many people are nervous when they meet me. I find that really embarrassing; I'm not in a higher class than anyone else!"

Meryl's upcoming projects include feminist drama Suffragette and comedy Florence Foster Jenkins.