(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Kate Winslet feels "fortunate" to have had the opportunity to work with controversial director Roman Polanski.

The Academy Award-winning British actress stars alongside Jodie Foster in Roman's newest film Carnage. When asked to participate in the film, Kate could not even fathom the possibility of turning down the offer.

"When Roman Polanski invites you to join him in any project you really don't say no," Kate explained to British newspaper The Telegraph.

"I felt extremely fortunate to be included."

Roman remains a fugitive from the United States after pleading guilty to having unlawful sex with a 13-year-old girl in 1978. In 2009 Roman was put on house arrest in Switzerland as a result of these charges, but United States law enforcement authorities failed in their efforts to extradite him for trial. Released from house arrest in July 2010, Carnage is the first film he has made since his detention.

The controversy surrounding the director did not affect Kate whilst she was deciding on whether or not to perform in this film. Artistically Kate holds Roman's work in high regard. In fact, most of the actors on set were awestruck by Roman's abilities.

"[The cast and I] were working with the great Roman Polanski," Kate said. "We are only human beings and we are still perfectly capable of being terrified, whoever we are."

Carnage will be screened at the Venice Film Festival in Italy this week. (C) Cover Media