Angelina Jolie may be one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood but her heart appears to be working behind the lens.

In a recent interview with Variety, the 39-year-old Oscar winner discussed directing her second film, "Unbroken," which will be released in theatres on Christmas day. She also addressed the rumor that she may be retiring from acting.

"I'll do a few more," said Jolie, when asked if she would continue to act in films. "I'm about to direct something with Brad and myself in fact."

That film, "Beyond the Sea," was also written by Jolie. She and husband Brad Pitt will star as a married couple that travels through France together in the mid-1970's but the two find themselves growing apart.

Despite her plan to star in a couple more movies, it appears that Jolie sights are set on developing her career as a director.

"I'm happier when I get to put a camera on another actor and watch them do great work," admitted the star.

Jolie's latest film "Unbroken" tells the true story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic runner who was taken prisoner by Japanese forces during World War II.

Zamperini tried to get his story told on film for 57 years before his death this past July. The war survivor and inspirational speaker's children told Variety that the film project finally came together when Jolie stepped on board.

"With her star power and her unbelievable focus, she got this film on the fast track," said Zamperini's son Luke, whose sister Cynthia Garris added that Jolie "swooped in like an angel."

"The night our father passed away, she and Brad came to our home and took such beautiful care of us," said Cynthia. "They cried with us, they held us, they made a soft place for us to fall. At one point I told her, 'My father was really in love with you.' And she said, 'I was in love with him!'"

Jolie also told the magazine that she jumped at the chance to direct Zamperini's story because she felt particularly connected to its hopeful message.

"There's so much going on in the world today that could make you lose hope," said Jolie. "To read about somebody who had something inspirational and positive-it was fulfilling. I wanted to be close to his story. I wanted to go on this journey and become a better person."

Gushing about Zamperini, Jolie explained that the WWII vet longed to inspire others through the story of his life.

"It's not about ego, he didn't want to be famous," said Jolie. "He wanted to make sure his message was clear. It's why he did speaking engagements, it's why he did his book. It's why he tried to get a movie made for 57 years. Everybody who reads this book and knows his life feels very connected to this man."

"They say you should never meet your heroes, because they often disappoint you," added Jolie. "But Louis really was one of the greatest people ever."