Emma Watson to star in Beauty and the Beast

Harry Potter actress Emma Watson is reportedly in the final stages of talks to star as Belle in Guillermo del Toro’s period adaptation of Beauty and the Beast.

Del Toro, who is the man behind another modern fairytale readaptation Pan’s Labyrinth, is reported to have said Watson was perfect for the part of Belle.

Variety has reported she is very close to confirming the role.

The script for the film, which has a working title “Beast”, is being penned by Andrew Davies who also wrote the screenplay for Bridget Jones’ Diary.

The film will be produced by Warner Brothers and del Toro, who has recently produced Puss In Boots, Kung Fu Panda 2, and an upcoming remake of Pinocchio. Del Toro is currently working on Pacific Rim.

The role of Belle in Beauty and the Beast isn’t that far off Watson’s most famed role of Hermione. Belle, like Hermione, is a book smart young woman who thrust into unusual circumstances. Only in this role she is forced to live with a beast in a mysterious castle in order to save her father instead of attending a school for young wizards.

Beauty and the Beast was first published in France in 1740 but there have been many adaptations. Disney’s 1993 musical version, which has also been performed on stage, is one of the most recognised. Jean Cocteau's 1946 production starring Josette Day is also notable.

After Harry Potter wrapped for the final time Watson has played roles in My Week With Marilyn and The Perks of Being a Wallflower, which is due for release later this year.

She will also star in Deathly Hallows director David Yates’ 2012 production, Your Voice In My Head.