Angie lands Scarpetta role

Angelina Jolie has landed a role in another suspense thriller - as a crime-solving medical examiner in a new film based on Patricia Cornwell's best-selling novels.

Jolie has signed on to play the title character from Cornwell's 16-novel series about forensic examiner Dr. Kay Scarpetta - a woman with a messy love life who solves crime and loves the opera.

According to Variety, the film will not focus on a specific Cornwell title. But insiders say the deal could mean the start of a new franchise for the actress - who had her last series success with 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider'.

The thriller is the latest in a string of crime-fighting characters for Jolie, who's starred in action films including 'Wanted', 'Mr. & Mrs. Smith' and 'Gone in 60 Seconds'.

Studio bosses have yet to line up a screenwriter or director for the new film.