Kidman not taking part in Narnia film says film company

5.00pm

The film company behind the upcoming production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe has denied rumours that Oscar-winning actress Nicole Kidman is poised to play a leading role.

The film of C S Lewis' famous children's book is being brought to the big screen by New Zealand producer-director Andrew Adamson, who also produced the Oscar-winning animated film Shrek.

Adamson's latest epic will be filmed mainly in Auckland but some scenes will be shot in the South Island.

The arrival of Kidman in Christchurch last week, and a helicopter tour she took over the Canterbury high country, had fuelled rumours that the the glamorous star would play a leading role in the film.

However, Walden Media today issued a statement denying the rumours.

Alison Lehrer, vice-president of the company's public relations said reports Kidman was taking part in the movie were false.

"It's a project that we're all very excited about, but unfortunately this is just not true. Hopefully we'll have some exciting news soon," she said.

At 178cm tall, some pundits believe the pale, imposing Kidman, 36, would be perfect for the role of the White Witch, who in the book puts a spell on Narnia so that it is always winter and never Christmas.

Ms Lehrer said filming of the multimillion dollar movie would begin this year in New Zealand and the Czech Republic. The company is aiming to release the film in December 2005.

- NZPA