The veteran has been approached to star in an as-yet-untitled film about a musician who is brought out of prison by his former manager for one last concert, according to the Daily Variety newspaper.

Some of Dylan's music may feature in the film but it was unclear whether he will write any new material for the movie.

It will be directed by Larry Charles, who was an executive producer of the long-running US sitcom Mad About You.

Producers are aiming to complete the picture in time for a premiere at the 2003 Sundance Film Festival.

Resurgence

Dylan's last major acting role was in the 1987 movie Hearts of Fire.

He also starred in and directed the 1978 movie Renaldo and Clara, which he co-wrote with Sam Shepard, and he took a co-starring role in the 1973 western Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid.

The singer has enjoyed a new lease of life of late.

Last year he won his first Oscar for the song Things Have Changed from the Michael Douglas movie Wonder Boys.