Spielberg to direct Harvey remake

Steven Spielberg is best known for directing blockbusters including ET

Steven Spielberg is to direct a remake of 1950 James Stewart classic Harvey - the tale of a man who claims his best friend is a giant invisible rabbit.

Casting for the film, a co-production between 20th Century Fox and Spielberg's DreamWorks Studios, has already begun.

The original film was based on a Pulitzer Prize-winning Broadway play of the same name by Mary Chase.

A Fox spokesman said the film could be in US cinemas by the end of 2010.

Production is due to begin early next year.

Stewart received a best actor nomination at the 1951 Oscars for his performance in the original while his co-star, Josephine Hull, won best supporting actress.