Tom Hooper to direct Freddie Mercury biopic

Los Angeles:Tom Hooper is being linked to direct the upcoming biopic on Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, which would see him reunite with `Les Miserables` star Sacha Baron Cohen.

The Oscar-winning filmmaker is reportedly being eyed by Sony Pictures and GK Films to oversee the long-planned film about the iconic singer, played by Cohen. No formal offer has been made to the director yet, but Hooper is considered to be the studios` first choice for the role, according to Deadline. Comedian Cohen has been linked to play the flamboyant rock star - who died aged 45 in 1991 following a long battle with AIDS. The biographical drama will be produced by Robert De Niro along with Graham King, Tim Headington and Jane Rosenthal. The film`s script is written by Oscar-nominated `Frost/Nixon` scribe Peter Morgan and the story is expected to focus on Queen`s career up until their infamous 1985 Live Aid concert. PTI