Natalie Portman for Madame Figaro Magazine July 2012

 Natalie Portman covers Madame Figaro's July 2012 issue. More below.

On being appreciative of her success: "I have always considered myself extremely lucky. I know very well that there are very few elected officials in this business and that many of us, despite their talent and hard work, will not come out of the lot. These are the laws of chance."

On her youthful appearance: "It's very strange because my physical traits sometimes make it difficult for others to consider me a woman and at the same time I have been in the business for so long that many think I have already passed the 40 year mark (laughs)."

On the thought of being an object of beauty: "I obviously do not see myself that way. I prefer 'about beauty' or 'subject of desire'. One can say that about all women, whatever their life and career."

On her reputation for being an intellectual: "It is a matter of context. In Hollywood, they consider me a smart woman, but in other circles, I'm probably seen as a silly actress. In America, they see me as European. In Europe, some see me as maybe a stupid American."

Credit @ Madame Figaro