Ever popular with the critics, Ralph Fiennes first came to the attention of international audiences in "Schindler's List" in 1993, for which he received an Oscar nomination and a British Academy Award. His performance in "The English Patient" earned him further critical acclaim and awards. His other film credits include "The End of the Affair" and, more recently, "Red Dragon" and "Spider". For his first comedy role he stars opposite Jennifer Lopez in "Maid in Manhattan".

This is your first leading role in a romantic comedy isn't it?

Yes, it is. I'd been wanting do something light for a while. It's been a long time coming. I was a little apprehensive but I wanted to do it. I am naturally drawn to dark roles but they wanted me for this role as a well-heeled, waspy, Republican guy. They think the Brits can do that.

A lot of the film was actually shot on location in Manhattan and at the Waldorf-Astoria. Did filming in a real hotel help you get into the spirit of it?

Actually, I worked in a hotel before I went to acting school. I was a house porter which meant I didn't wear a uniform. I wore a white coat. I changed light bulbs. I changed shower curtains. I changed bedspreads. I vacuumed. I polished brass.

What did you like about the story?

For me, it's comedy but it's rooted in real people. The situations are humorous but they're real. I think it's well scripted and it’s a Cinderella story for today.

You were romantically linked with J-Lo in the tabloids while you were filming. How did you deal with that situation?

I've had to develop and sustain a sense of humour about it. I don't know what went on except they thought they had something on Jen and I being an item based only on one dinner in a restaurant. I kissed her goodnight and she went off with her manager.

How would you sum up the film?

It is meant to be a feelgood movie. It's not pretending to be anything other than light, romantic, popcorn entertainment.