Gérard Depardieu to play Stalin in new film

French actor Gérard Depardieu is set to play Joseph Stalin in an upcoming film.

The actor, who gained Russian citizenship in 2013, is due to play Stalin in a film by French actress and director Fanny Ardant, entitled Stalin’s Sofa. Based on French author Jean-Daniel Baltassat’s 2013 novel of the same name, the film is to be produced by French/Portuguese company Leopardo Filmes, while Russia’s Mosfilm studio will provide the costumes and props.

Set in the 1950s Soviet Union, the movie will focus on the story of on a young artist commissioned to create a monument to Stalin.

Mr Depardieu has already expressed his desire to play the role of Ivan the Terrible in a film, stating his readiness to learn the language in preparation for such a role.

Source: Hollywood Reporter