Penelope Cruz Hired In 40 Seconds 8/11/08

Actress Penelope Cruz landed her role in Vicky Cristina Barcelona - after meeting with director Woody Allen for less than a minute.

The Vanilla Sky star was offered the part of Maria Elena in the romantic comedy following the quickest job interview she has ever had.

She says, "I was warned our meeting wouldn't take long but I thought that would mean 30 minutes.

"Instead, he spoke to me for just 40 seconds. It was the shortest meeting I've ever had with a director."