The script for American Dreamz is pretty out there. What was your reaction after reading it?
I laughed out loud! I thought it was so funny from start to finish. It was one of those things that when I read it I kept thinking, "this is so awesome. I'll probably not get cast but I will definitely see the movie when it comes out." Then lo and behold, it ended up coming my way.

Why do you think we are all so obsessed with American Idol (and Canadian Idol)? What is it about these shows that make millions of viewers tune in week after week?
My only explanation would be "escapism." I know I watch it all the time and I love rooting for certain people. I have my TiVo (PVR) set for every Tuesday and Wednesday nights. I am a die-hard fan. I just love witnessing people in whatever situation they are in overcoming whatever obstacles may be in their life and achieving greatness. I love watching them progress from week to week and become more confident. 
Sometimes the people you don't like so much fail and I hate to admit it, but I like seeing that too.

As an actor and especially as a singer, you have worked so hard to get where you are. Does it bug you that these singers become instant stars just because they are on TV every week?
But they are working hard as well. They had to go through rounds and rounds of auditions and then there is the pressure of being on television and having these three judges scrutinize every move that they make and one of them is really mean and brutally honest. Plus, they are being watched by millions of people who ultimately decide their fate by voting for them. They are being picked on for every little thing they do, or wear-it is incredible pressure. Kudos to them, I think they all work very hard to get there and I have a lot of respect for them.

Hugh Grant is very funny playing the "Simon Cowell" type character. How did you enjoy working with him?
He was absolutely amazing. I think as a woman I am still like, "whoa, cool me off!"
He is incredibly intimidating. I was like, "oh my god, he's a big movie star and I get to work with him" and I think it was important for my character Sally to feel that way so I sort of infused that into her and just went with it. He is such a lovely man and so self-deprecating and is really just a quiet sort of humble kind of guy.

Do you read the tabloids, or get upset when you see things written about yourself that are not true?
I have been pretty lucky in terms of having some pretty nice stuff said about me. I mean if they want to write about who I am dating, or what colour my hair is, then let them. I have to admit that I do read a lot of stuff but I am not bothered by it. You just have to take it all in stride and keep a level head and I have a great family and friends who help me with that!

You recently signed with a new record label (Warner Music). What is happening with your music career?
I'm really hoping to have something out by the end of the year. I'd like a second chance when it comes to my music. A lot of people remember me in one area back when I was 14 singing about candy, but I've really grown up and my musical tastes have changed. I want my next album to reflect who I am now.

How did you like having a guest part on Scrubs and what was it like working with your boyfriend Zach Braff?
I had such a blast doing that show. It was totally comfortable and great working with Zach. I think because everyone knows me and knows that we're together, it wasn't as awkward as I thought it was going to be.

You went blonde for the movie, now you are back to being a brunette. Which do you prefer?
Definitely being a brunette. Blondes have fun, but I love my dark hair!

For the full unedited version of this interview, click here.

Hugh Grant
"I had been told that she hadn't done too many films before this one but she was so at home in front of the camera. I didn't know of her because I don't know a lot about music and I don't live in North America and I wasn't aware of her music career but she held it all together and was an absolute pleasure to work with."

Tony Yalda
"To be honest, I was waiting for Mandy to have a "diva" moment and there was not a single one.
One time she did one of these, 'oh I think my hair hurts a little, the extension is too tight,' and I was like g-d Mandy you are such a diva,' and she was like, 'Thanks Tony' and gave me a big hug!"