Streep set to play Thatcher in new biopic

Hollywood star Meryl Streep is in discussions to play Baroness Thatcher in the countdown to the Falklands War, it was reported today.

Hollywood star Meryl Streep is in discussions to play Maggie Thatcher in the countdown to the Falklands War, it was reported today.

The star could take the lead role in a biopic of the long-serving former prime minister which is being developed by 'Mamma Mia!' director Phyllida Lloyd.

According to 'Hollywood Reporter', her late husband Denis could by played by Jim Broadbent, who is also said to be in talks.

The film, being developed by Pathe and BBC Films, is set in 1982 and examines the moments leading up to Britain going to war with Argentina over its invasion of the islands.

The conflict was a pivotal moment in her political career, which went on to cause her popularity to soar and ensured the second of her three British general election wins.

The film is to be produced by Damian Jones, whose previous credits have included the Ian Dury film 'Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll'.

Brian Fillis, who has written the screenplay, has previously scripted BBC biopics of Fanny Cradock and Harry H Corbett, as well as the Quentin Crisp film 'An Englishman In New York'.

Other real-life figures played by Streep in previous movies have included chef Julia Child in 'Julie And Julia'.