'Illusionist' helps Biel diversify career

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 13 (UPI) -- With a role in the high-profile U.S. film "The Illusionist," actress Jessica Biel said she has taken a key step in diversifying her career.

The New York Post said landing a lead role in the Neil Burger-directed film opposite respected actor Edward Norton helped Esquire's "Sexiest Woman Alive" make her first foray into Hollywood's big leagues.

Playing the role of Norton's love interest Sophie in the dramatic film also gave the 24-year-old actress a chance to test her acting skills against some of the industry's best, the report said.

"It was inspiring," she said of working with actors Norton, Rufus Sewell and Paul Giamatti in the film." "It made me bring it to the next level, every day. I don't think I ever saw Paul or Edward do a scene the same way twice. I feel like I'm always trying to remember that."

Previously, Biel's attempts into the film industry were limited to supporting efforts in low-end movies such as "Stealth," "Cellular," and "Blade: Trinity."

Yet when "The Illusionist" opens in U.S. theaters Friday, the woman who posed topless for Gear magazine in 2000 will have her chance to display her acting gifts as well, said the Post.