Search for a star

Nicole Kidman with Baz Luhrmann at Cannes in 2001

The director Baz Luhrmann has exclusively told Breakfast that he is looking to cast an unknown in his new film starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Nicole Kidman.

Natasha caught up with the Australian director as he announced details of the worldwide casting in London.

He's looking for someone to play the part of a young Alexander the Great.

You have to be a boy aged about eight or nine, and be able to ride a horse; but read on for full details including the address of where to send your details.

You can watch director Baz Luhrmann's appeal, and our extended interview which is only available on the internet by clicking on the link at the top of the page

Best known for the films Moulin Rouge!, La Boheme and William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, the internationally renowned director said he would leave no stone unturned to find the actor to play the young Leonardo DiCaprio.

Alexander the Great will be played by Leonardo in what's being described as an epic adventure that will also see Nicole Kidman cast as Olympia, Alexander's mother.

It's probably where the risk lies - that we're investing so much in the child Baz Luhrmann, film director

The part of the young Alexander is crucial, says the director because it gets to the heart of what he needs to do with this film - which is to take an icon and make it human.

Alexander the Great was born in 356BC; he had conquered 90% of the world by the age of 25 but died at the age of 33.

He led his armies across 22,000 miles of sieges and conquests over a period of eight years.

He had a legendary horse, Bucephalus, with whom he had a close relationship.

He must be prepared to learn to ride a horse, but it would be a huge advantage if he already possessed equestrian skills" Baz Lurmann, film director

Luhrmann said: We are looking for a young actor who could credibly play the role of Alexander, aged 8 - 9...he also has to look like a young Leonardo DiCaprio.

Pre Production

Luhrmann has already started work on the film, studio executives were said to be dazzled by the script.

He's been to Morocco and Jordan, where he's been shooting background plates and is soon heading for Greece and Iran.

Then it's off to Los Angeles and Sydney to complete the casting process.

Speaking about his role, Leonardo DiCaprio said: "The character of Alexander the Great is one of the most remarkable figures in history.

"It's not just that he conquered the world or was taught by one of the great minds in history, Aristotle; what most attracts me is the complex character of Alexander himself."

Luhrmann plans to release the film in 2005.

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Casting for the young Alexander

Baz Luhrmann is looking for a boy age eight or nine

Who must be able to ride a horse or be prepared to learn

Must be a good physical match for Leonardo DiCaprio

Send a colour head shot, CV and statistical details including age, height, weight, and horse riding experience to:

Universal Pictures Feature Castings Dept
UNTITLED ALEXANDER THE GREAT PROJECT
100 Universal City Plaza
Building 2160/8A
Universal City, CA 91608
USA

Please note, the only way of applying is by writing to the above address, do not write to Breakfast.

We will not be involved in the casting process, but we have provided all the details you need here.