Streep, Streisand or Close to Play Normas in 'Sunset' Film?

According to the London Telegraph, three of the biggest stars in entertainment - Meryl Streep, Barbra Streisand and Glenn Close - are readying themselves for a possible close-up as Norma Desmond in an upcoming screen version of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Sunset Boulevard.

"Meryl Streep, 58, the double Oscar-winning star, is competing with Glenn Close, 60, one of her oldest friends, and Barbra Streisand, 65, who is riding high after the success of her £500-a-head worldwide concert tour...The women are on a shortlist being considered by Andrew Lloyd Webber, who composed the music for his version of the 1950 film classic, and Don Black and Christopher Hampton, who share equal credits for the show's book and lyrics. All three stars have been in discussions about taking on the role," states the article.  Close played Norma in Los Angeles and originated the role on Broadway, while Streisand has recorded versions of Sunset Boulevard ballads "As If We Never Said Goodbye" and "With One Look," while Streep - who will soon be singing on screen in Mamma Mia! - became interested in the role of Norma Desmond after seeking a workshop version of Sunset Boulevard at Webber's Sydmonton estate.

The article also states that Ewan McGregor and Hugh Jackman are favored candidates for the role of Joe Gillis, the young screenwriter who becomes embroiled in the web of ex-silent screen star Norma's faded glamor. 

Sunset Boulevard, based on the 1950 Paramount film by Billy Wilder (which starred Gloria Swanson as Norma), premiered in London and opened at the Minskoff Theatre on November 17th, 1994 for a run of 977 performances.  It won the 1995 Tony Award for Best Musical and also became a vehicle for a number of stars - such as Betty Buckley and Elaine Paige - who played Norma.  An upcoming screen version has been rumored for some time, but the project now seems to be coming to fruition.

Photo of Meryl Streep by Retna Ltd.