Hollywood actress Cameron Diaz says that the fat green ogress whose voice she supplies in the popular Shrek films is a great model for modern women.
In Rome with Antonio Banderas and pop star Justin Timberlake to promote the latest Shrek movie, Diaz said her character, Princess Fiona, was an embodiment of female dynamism.
"We are used to princesses that are shut up in towers and need saving," said the actress at a press conference, noting that Fiona needs no help.
In Shrek the Third she escapes the clutches of Prince Charming and leads a rebellion of formerly placid royal princesses, all while she is expecting three baby ogres.
"She's an extraordinary example for modern women who take control of their own destiny. She shows you have to be active if you want life to smile on you," said Diaz.
Meanwhile, outside the hotel, the crowds were mostly there for Spanish heart-throb Banderas, who voices a purring Puss in Boots in the latest Shrek tale.
The 46-year-old actor told reporters that after two films in the role of the playboy feline he identifies strongly with the character. "At this point, I AM the cat," he said.
Diaz and Banderas are scheduled to return to America on Saturday while Timberlake, who plays a new character, Arthur, in Shrek III, said he intended to stay a little longer.
On Friday afternoon the singer, who was Diaz's boyfriend until February this year, went off to the Vatican to do some sightseeing.
Shrek the Third was released in the US a month ago and has already grossed 342 million dollars. It is due for release in Italy on August 31.
