HOLLYWOOD producers have dropped an attempt to glitz up Bolton playwright Jim Cartwright's acclaimedZRise and Fall of Little Voice. The development means Rossendale actress Jane Horrocks - who starred in the award-winning West End stage production of the play - has been dramatically reinstated female lead for movie. There had been widespread condemnation of plans to "Americanise" the story with starlet Gwyneth Paltrow in the lead role.

Director Sam Mendes, who staged the play and wrote both British and American scripts for the film, refused to direct the Hollywood version.

The Daily MailZquoted Mendes today: "Harvey Weinstein of Miramax (the backers) was touting the American version, but it was a bit like having Tennessee Williams come and writeZA Streetcar Named DesireZand setting it in Bolton. The whole flavour of Little Voice could never really leave the north of England."

Now Ms Horrocks, 32, has been asked to return to the project, possibly opposite Ewan McGregor as the leading man.

The picture starring the Absolutely Fabulous actress was originally scheduled to start shooting in the north of England in autumn, but after the Miramax pulled the plug the whole shoot was put on hold.

Now, because of the uncertainty, Ms Horrocks and Mendes no longer have time to make the film this year.

Mendes was quoted further saying: "There won't be an opportunity to make the film until late next year, and Jane and I aren't 100 per cent sure we want to work with people who blow with the wind."

The story is about a withdrawn Lancashire girl who can communicate only by imitating vulnerable movie legends, such as Judy Garland and Marilyn Monroe.

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