Peter Jackson Eyeing Naomi Watts for King Kong

Director Peter Jackson is eyeing Naomi Watts to follow in the footsteps of Fay Wray and become the obsession of the giant ape in King Kong. Jackson has offered the lead role to Watts for Universal's Christmas 2005 film which will shoot in New Zealand.

The star of The Ring would play Ann Darrow, an American actress who makes a living performing in Broadway song and dance shows in Depression-era New York.

Jackson is expected to start writing the script in November with Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens, his co-scripters on "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, and plans to shoot next summer. The director will expand on the chapters of the tale that take place in the mysterious and dangerous jungles of Skull Island, and his Kong promises to be a unique and breathtaking creation.