Angelina Jolie insists she feels uncomfortable in front of the camera – and she’s ready to give up acting.

The Oscar-winning filmmaker said she is “much happier” directing, not starring in films.

“I’ve never been comfortable as an actor; I’ve never loved being in front of the camera,” she told Du Jour magazine, adding: “I didn’t ever think I could direct, but I hope I’m able to have a career at it because I’m much happier.”

Angelina Jolie
Angelina Jolie says she’s happier behind the camera (PA)

And when asked if her plan is to give up acting entirely, Angelina – who has been hinting for years that she will retire from the big-screen one day – replied: “Absolutely.”

Angelina, who made her directorial debut with war drama In The Land Of Blood And Honey in 2011, returns to the director’s chair with Unbroken, about Olympic runner, US airman and prisoner-of-war Louie Zamperini (played by Jack O’Connell).

“When it comes to being a director, it’s so new for me and I’m quite shy about it because I’m still learning. I’ll feel better when audiences start to see it. I think we’re on the right track, but I’m not breathing easy just yet,” she said.

However, fans will be able to see Angelina star alongside husband Brad Pitt in period love story By The Sea. The film, which she also directs, follows a 1970s couple and their complicated marriage during a trip to France.

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie
Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie (PA)

“Compared to Unbroken, this film is a walk in the park,” she explained. “The tricky thing is directing myself and directing Brad. It’s hard, dramatic material, and we’re balancing.”

She continued: “It’s a heavy film, and it’s not easy for us. But even as you struggle through it, you’re in the trenches together and you don’t expect it to be easy. We’re challenging each other and that’s a really good thing.”