Carla Bruni has small role in Woody Allen movie

France's first lady, a former model turned singer, is making her debut as an actress, filming in the shadow of Notre Dame cathedral for Woody Allen's 'Midnight in Paris.'

Carla Bruni-Sarkozy was seen seated next to actor Owen Wilson on a park bench. Allen gave instructions, while dozens of onlookers tried to get a glimpse of the action on the cordoned-off Jean XXIII Square.

The French president showed up on a nearby set on Tuesday to watch his spouse in her latest creative venture.

Allen, beloved by the French, recruited Bruni-Sarkozy last autumn for a role in the romantic comedy which follows a family travelling in Paris for business. France's first lady reportedly plays a museum director.

This week's scenes were shot in the heart of Paris, near the Pantheon, the resting place of many of France's luminaries, and on the Ile de la Cite.

In November, when she announced her plans to accept Allen's offer of a role, the 42-year-old said she was unsure of her acting skills.

However, she said she could not pass up the chance to play in a Woody Allen film.

Bruni-Sarkozy had a small role in the 1994 Robert Altman film "Pret-a-Porter" and the 1998 movie "Paparazzi," by Alain Berberian, each time playing herself. Her sister Valeria Bruni-Tedeschi is an actress and director.

Bruni released a new album two years ago but refused to tour and gives royalties to the Foundation of France. It is not clear whether she is being paid for this film role.

The film also features Oscar-winning actresses Marion Cotillard and Kathy Bates.