Naomi Watts is set to play Diana, Princess of Wales in an upcoming film.

Caught In Flight, which is being made by UK-based Ecosse Films and acclaimed German Downfall director Oliver Hirschbiegel, will focus on the two years before Diana's death in August 1997.

According to the filmmakers, the biopic "charts how finding true personal happiness for the first time allowed her to achieve her defining successes evolving into a major international campaigner and humanitarian".

Oscar-nominated, British-born Australian actress Naomi said: "It is such an honour to be able to play this iconic role - Princess Diana was loved across the world and I look forward to rising to the challenge of playing her on screen."

Director Oliver added: "I am delighted to have such a truly exceptional actress who embodies the warmth, humanity and empathy of such a global icon as Princess Diana."

The film is based on a screenplay by playwright Stephen Jeffreys, who previously penned the script for the 2004 Johnny Depp film The Libertine.

Production will begin in the UK later this year.