Robert Downey Jr. and Beyonce are tipped to take the lead roles in a new remake of 1930s movie classic A Star Is Born.

First released in 1937, the musical has been reworked twice in the past, with Judy Garland and James Mason in 1957 and Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson in 1976.

Actor-turned-director Nick Cassavettes is behind the latest version and has signed a deal with Warner Bros ahead of a 2012 release, reports Deadline Hollywood Daily.

Downey Jr. and Beyonce are the favourites for the lead roles, playing Normal Maine and Esther Victoria Blodgett, aka Vicki Lester - with Mad Men star John Hamm, Alicia Keys and Rihanna linked as back-up stars.

It's not the first time a remake has been mooted, Will Smith and Jennifer Lopez were once linked to a version planned by director Joel Schumacher.