Jolie has become a fan of E.L. James' cult work of erotica fiction, 50 Shades of Grey, according to insiders. She read the novel after being introduced to it while shooting, in Buckinghamshire, for her role as the evil sorceress Maleficent, in the forthcoming Disney adaptation of Sleeping Beauty.

“Angelina kept hearing about the book while she was in the UK. All the girls on set were talking about it and how it's being made into a film,” a source was quoted as saying, “Angelina went out and bought herself a copy, thinking she'd love a part in the hot topic on everyone's lips at the moment. She knows the film is bound to be a huge hit.”

Other actresses in line for the submissive Anastasia are the Emma Watson, Katie Cassidy and Scarlett Johansson.

If she bags a part in the movie, she may end up starring opposite Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale or Chris Pine, who've all been suggested to play disturbed businessman Christian.

The source continues, “Ange is dead set that she wants to have a major part in it and the demure girl is the only main female lead. She’s up for the challenge.”