(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Stephen Dorff says his part in his upcoming movie is “the hardest role” he has ever played.

Stephen appears opposite child star Elle Fanning - the 12-year-old sister of Dakota Fanning - in Sofia Coppola’s Somewhere, a tale of a father and young daughter living a privileged but chaotic life in Los Angeles.

Stephen plays Elle’s character Cleo’s father Johnny, and says he really struggled with the role because the movie is so naturalistic and lacks dialogue.

"It is hands down the hardest role I have ever played as there are no tricks; there's nothing to hide behind. There's also the challenge of saying things without actually saying them out loud,” he told the BBC.

Director Sofia says Stephen had no need to worry, as she specifically cast him for his natural acting ability.

She praised the actor, who she considers a friend, for his honesty and depth of performance.

"I'd known Stephen for years. He has so much heart and is so sincere,” she said. "Johnny is a flawed guy. I needed someone with that heart to play him and to bring that sweetness to his relationship with his daughter."

Stephen admits he was flattered Sofia thought of him first, and says he admires her vision and determination.

"Sofia fought for me to be in the movie, which says a lot about knowing what she wants as a filmmaker," he gushed. (C) Cover Media