Sienna Miller to play Tippi Hedren in new film

British actress Sienna Miller will be portraying Tippi Hedren in a new film that will be shown in 2012 on BBC Two.

Tippi was cast as the lead in Alfred Hitchcock's famous 1963 film 'The Birds' after the film director saw her in a TV advert for a diet drink the previous year.

This led to rumours about Hitchcock's intention towards the actress as the director had shown a penchant for blondes throughout his career including Grace Kelly.

Gwyneth Hughes, the writer of the film, said: "Everyone knows Hitchcock was keen on his blondes.

"Unfortunately for Tippi, he developed a twisted and obsessive love for her that left her feeling isolated and terrified. He made repeated sexual advances towards her and tried to take over her life."

The actress starred in several of Hitchcock's films before leaving his employment after his obsession became too much.

The film will be based on the 2008 book 'Spellbound by Beauty' by Donald Spoto, who will be working with the producers.

Tippi, who is the mother of Melanie Griffiths, will also be working with the film makers.