Robert Downey Jr to play Wizard of Oz?

New York (ANI): Robert Downey Jr. is reportedly set to play the lead role in an upcoming prequel of the 'The Wizard of Oz'. Production Weekly reports that the actor, who is also in yet to release comic book sequel 'Iron Man 2," is in talks to star in "Oz: The Great and Powerful."

The prequel tale would follow the wonderful wizard when he first arrived in the faraway land somewhere over the rainbow. On the other hand, Sam Mendes is a possible contender to direct the project but reports have also hinted that "Hairspray" director Adam Shankman could get behind the camera, reports The New York Daily News.

Written by screenwriter Mitchell Kapner, the script is based off of elements from different L. Frank Baum books, the author of the original "Oz" tales, the Los Angeles Times reported.