They may be some of the most sought after actresses in Hollwood.
But according to one of Tinseltown's most respected producers British starlets like Gemma Arterton, Emma Watson, Keira Knightley and Rebecca Hall can't do sexy because they're just too inhibited.
Paul Breuls, producer of film the Devil's Double - the recent biopic of Saddam Hussein's sadistic eldest son Uday - reckons when it comes to jaw-dropping sex appeal our girls just don't make the grade.
British actresses like (from left) Gemma Arterton, Kiera Knightley and Emma Watson are too inhibited to be sexy claims Hollywood producer Paul Breuls
But he decided they simply weren't sexy enough and instead plumped for French actress Ludivine Sagnier.
Discussing the controversial choice, he said: 'The role is very demanding sexually and it’s difficult to find actresses who are willing to take that leap into the sexual unknown, especially in the States or in England.
'Ludivine Sagnier is someone who made our first short list because she’s done some of the most sensual work in French film. She’s uninhibited, and she’s an excellent actress to boot.'
Mais oui: French Actress Ludivine Sagnier alongside co-star Dominic Cooper in the Devil's Double
But that hasn't stopped some within the rushing to the defence of Britain's finest.
Director Michael Winner, who has worked with some of the biggest names on both sides of channel includng Joan Collins, hayley Mills, Faye Dunnaway and Lauren Bacall, argues that British starlets are far from coy.
He told the Indendent: 'I've come across some some actresses who are inhibited but I don't think British ones are particularly coy.
'Quite the contrary, I've had to persuade them to keep their clothes on. I had Stephanie Beacham do lover scenes with Marlon Brando and she aquitted herself very well.'