by pat



Not to brag, but I called her for big things from the get-go. Granted, I just thought she was hot, although her role in "The Mask" asked for little more. But then I saw a movie from TSU's Dan Rosen, "The Last Supper," and I knew I was so right. Not only was she very competent in the film, a model turned actress in her second role, but she held her own against such established actors as Charles Durning, Jason Alexander, Bill Paxton, and Ron Perlman. Alright, I can only stand by Durning as accomplished, but the others have had their merit on occasion.

With this film she also proved her smarts. Go from big exposure to a lot of smaller roles, chances to hone her craft, and also be known as someone willing to take risks. Art films are the best way to be the next hot thing. They add credibility to you, and low box office is expected so blame is usually not cast upon the stars.

Once her name was around, she went mainstream again. "There's Something About Mary" was bigger than anyone expected, partly due to the until-recently-vastly-underrated Ben Stiller, but also to Cameron's charm and willingness to look a fool. Would Julia Roberts allowed jizz in her hair for a cheap laugh? Of course not, no matter how funny it was. Diaz knows that her ego is not what makes the movie, and is willing to do what it takes to make it work.

Exhibit B: "Being John Malkovich." Again, an ex-model. Did you see her? Frizzy hair, frumpy clothes, an abrasive demeanor. There are plenty of actresses out there who fit this bill. How they thought of her is beyond me, but she took the role and ran with it. Worth the risk? Well, besides the movie being very well received, and her performance especially so, she got herself not just an Oscar nomination, but good buzz for winning.

Her follow ups? "Any Given Sunday," probably for the paycheck, then "Charlie's Angels." From an Oscar nod to an Aaron Spelling remake. She SO rocks. Also, and I think she is so hot. I mean wickedly, rockin' hot. Some people make fun of her smile. Screw them. It's a big, not ashamed to be happy, dorky laugh smile. Incredibly endearing. While I will never likely make her my bride, me an overfed lawn gnome (spillthewinespillthewine) I'd like it if we could at least be friends. Please? Cammie?