(Cover) - -No story type selected- - Cameron Diaz says playing a foul-mouthed, sexually confident teacher in her new movie was liberating.

The actress is Elizabeth in Bad Teacher, a character who sets her sights on the boyfriend of her colleague after being dumped by her partner. The movie also stars Justin Timberlake who plays Elizabeths new love interest Scott and Cameron had a blast while shooting.

She knows Elizabeth isnt the most likeable character but says that is exactly why she enjoyed making the picture so much.

Playing Elizabeth was very liberating, only because you really dont care. She doesnt care, so you cant really care. In the end of it all, I think that her lack of self-respect comes from her now being given the skills to recognise what she has to offer and who she is and to value herself, Cameron explained.

Elizabeth is forthright when talking to people, which is something Cameron admires. Although she admits its not always best to tell someone exactly what you think of them, the actress sometimes wishes she was more courageous with her opinions.

The great thing about Elizabeth is she says the truth, she says it how she sees it. Theres great wisdom in what she says, in fact, she explained during a recent movie convention. Its how she delivers it, which Im sure would be more effective or more appreciated if she delivered it in a less cutting way, but thats not who she is.

Cameron has come under fire from some critics for playing the character, with women claiming Elizabeth is a stereotype who does other females no favours. The star isnt interested in those opinions, saying people need to understand what the character actually signifies.

I think for me, Im not a feminist. Everything has evolved over a period of time. I think this character is meant to represent good and bad of what is possible in a human being, and I think thats something that I appreciated, she explained. (C) Cover Media