(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Mena Suvari was grateful to Kevin Spacey for "protecting" her during the making of American Beauty.

Mena became one of the world's most sought-after actresses after appearing in the critically acclaimed drama back in 1999.

Directed by Sam Mendes, the movie starred Hollywood icon Kevin as lead male character Lester Burnham and Mena still has fond memories of working with him.

"I was so young when I worked on that film and they took me in, especially Kevin Spacey he really taught me a lot and was very protective of me on set. It was a great experience," smiled the 32-year-old.

"At the time I had no concept of what I was working on. It was always just about the work. I was just happy to have a job so I had no concept of the film being successful I didn't have that perspective at that point in my life."

Mena also reflected on the scene where her character Angela Hayes' body was adorned in rose petals. The actress' memories of shooting the moment are hazy.

"Jeez, I don't even remember," she laughed when the British edition of OK! magazine asked how long it took to film. "I think maybe it took a couple of hours. It was an amazing experience." (C) Cover Media