Making her first film appearance at the age of four, Natasha Richardson was always destined for the big screen. Originally a stage actress Richardson has now achieved success both in TV and film. Her film debut came in 1986 when she played Mary Shelley in "Gothic". Her other film credits include "Nell", "The Parent Trap", and "Blow Dry". She now appears with Ralph Fiennes and Jennifer Lopez in "Maid in Manhattan".

Tell us about your character, Caroline...

I just thought she was very well written. I recognised that character. I've come across a couple of girls like that. There are a few "Carolines" in most of the affluent cities of the world! Those spoilt, airhead socialites who think they have a job but don't know the meaning of real work. I thought it would be fun to play that.

You're so convincing in the role. Tell us who you based this character on?

I'm not naming names! She's a composite of a couple of people who shall remain nameless. They probably wouldn't even recognise themselves!

You don't do a great deal of comedy. So why did you choose this film?

I've played comedy before but not that much. I mostly do get drawn to darker material, and I think part of the attraction was to play something so radically different from the parts I normally play. And Ralph is a really good friend and I've worked with Bob Hoskins three times. We all talk the same language in a way. We just had a laugh and tried to keep things light.

How about working with Jennifer Lopez?

I really enjoyed playing the scenes with her. I didn't get an opportunity to get to know her. There are a lot of things going on in her life and there's a lot of people around her.