Emma Watson in talks to play Cinderella

London: Emma Watson is in early talks with studios to play the lead in a live action movie version of the classic fairy-tale Cinderella directed by Kenneth Branagh.

According to Variety, the 22-year-old actress will star opposite Cate Blanchett, who has already been cast as the wicked stepmother, the Independent reported. Since the Harry Potter franchise ended two years ago Watson has appeared in `The Perks of Being A Wallflower,` Darren Aronofsky`s `Noah` and comedy `This is the End.` Disney is said to have also considered Imogen Poots, Gabriella Wilde and Alicia Vikander for Cinderella`s role. In 2009, Watson was reported to be considering the role of Cinderella in a goth-inspired revamp that was written and directed by Marilyn Manson. ANI