(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Natalie Portman says her Oscar nomination has made her less cautious when it comes to tackling tough movie roles.

The star was in the running for the best supporting actress Academy Award for her part in 2004 film Closer, about the intertwining relationships of two couples. Although Natalie insists the nomination hasnt changed her life in any monumental way, it did boost her confidence and make her happier to tackle unusual parts.

Its not a conscious effort because youre always looking for good roles. But Im much more open to different kinds of projects because Im less cautious, she explained. Fear is intrinsic to everything you do as a creative person. Youre constantly putting yourself up there to be judged and trashed. Ive tried to stop thinking about that and so now Im much more ready to try different things and just be as creative and daring as I possibly can.

Playing Alice in Closer is the role which has had the biggest impact on Natalie. She was fascinated by the character, which is why she was able to get under her skin so well. The actress admits portraying Alice scared her sometimes, as there were so many facets to the character.

She was a woman whose vulnerability and coldness scared me, the star explained to the Australian edition of Harpers Bazaar. Alice was very complex and damaged in some ways and there was this intense sadness and fear that came over me when I was living with the role. (C) Cover Media