Dita Von Teese to play Mata Hari

Burlesque sensation Dita Von Teese is set to play exotic dancer Mata Hari in Martha Fiennes impending biopic of the tragic star.

Washington, Oct 31 : Burlesque sensation Dita Von Teese is set to play exotic dancer Mata Hari in Martha Fiennes' impending biopic of the tragic star.

Von Teese has done a small number of film roles till now, but Fiennes believes that the dancer is perfect and fully prepared for the part.

"Dita has done a little acting before and I think she can handle it. In fact, I approached her myself. She is perfect for the part," Contactmusic quoted Fiennes, as saying.

However, the director revealed that she will give Von Teese plenty of time to practice for the role, as the shooting will not commence until late 2008.

"I have written the script but it will probably need some developing, so I don't expect filming for another eight to 10 months," she said.

Hari, born Margaretha Geertruida Zelle, was executed in France in 1917, being exposed as a double agent during World War I.

ANI