Andrew Domink’s “Blonde” has become one of the most controversial films of the fall festival season, with many critics expressing disappointment in its treatment of abortion and frequent use of nudity, which led the film to receive an Nc-17 rating. But while some feel that the sexual subject matter is overshadowing the rest of the film, its lead actress sees things differently.

In a new interview with Entertainment Weekly, Ana de Armas, who plays Marilyn Monroe in the film defended the film’s use of nudity and explained that she isn’t bothered by other people’s interpretations of it.

“It’s harder for people to watch [those scenes] than for me to make them, because I understood what I was doing and I felt very protected and safe,” de Armas said. “I didn’t feel exploited because I was in control. I made that decision. I knew what the movie I was doing.