Career Retrospective: Cameron Diaz

Twenty years into her film career, model turned movie star Cameron Diaz remains as in-demand as ever. What have been the highlights of her career so far?

Despite having no previous acting experience, the 21-year-old model scored the female lead in this special-effects driven superhero flick. Her eye-catching beauty and infectious smile marked her as a star in the making.

After honing her acting chops in a series of independent films, Diaz made another big splash in Hollywood, thanks to her buoyant performance as an apparently perfect young woman.

The loose-limbed Diaz sparkled opposite Ewan McGregor as her befuddled kidnapper, highlighted by a magical song and dance number atop a bar.

Diaz emanates a special "something" that makes Mary eminently lovable and relatable, and much more than a simple fantasy figure for lovestruck boys and men. And, no, that's not hair gel.

Submerging herself fully into the world created by writer Charlie Kaufman and director Spike Jonze, Diaz reached new dramatic heights as the unhappy wife of puppeteer John Cusack.

Cast as the ruthless, strong-willed owner of a professional football franchise, Diaz faces off against Al Pacino, the longtime head coach. Diaz makes her completely believable.

Diaz signed up for the big-screen adaptation of the iconic '70s TV show on the basis of her friend Drew Barrymore's enthusiasm, and proved to be more than capable as an action heroine.

Using only her voice talents, Diaz gave life to Princess Fiona, a character who helped redefine the concept of "beauty" for a new generation.

Diaz took on the thankless role of Tom Cruise's beautiful "buddy" who wants more than just sex; she imbued the character with a chilling edge of menace.

In her first true lead role in a comedy, Diaz's vivacious personality lifts the film above the raunchy, below-the-belt set pieces.

The actress demonstrated her range as a 19th century pickpocket who steals Leonardo DiCaprio's heart in Martin Scorsese's gritty, dark-hearted epic

After wrecking several family relationships, Diaz reunites with her long-lost grandmother (Shirley MacLaine) and discovers her true purpose in life. It's a sensitive, nuanced performance.

Reeling from romantic failure, Los Angeles businesswoman Diaz swaps homes with a British editor (Kate Winslet) for the holidays. Diaz is open-hearted as she considers romance again with Jude Law.

Former lawyer Diaz cares for a very sick daughter, but must return to court to battle her other daughter. Diaz is steely and determined, yet emotionally torn as a loving mother.

A disgruntled, gold-digging schoolteacher knows what she wants and (thinks she) knows how to get it. Diaz plays her for big laughs; Jason Segel co-stars as a gym teacher.

Demonstrating a continued willingness to take on challenging roles, Diaz's cold-hearted criminal is probably psychotic, explaining her jaw-dropping intimacy with the windshield of a sports car.

Reteaming with her 'Bad Teacher' co-star, Diaz and Jason Segel seek to rekindle their marriage by recording a sex tape. Diaz's distinctive ability to fuse sex appeal with comedy and heart stamps the movie as a welcome breath of fresh air.