Crowe to play Robin - and sheriff

Kiwi film star Russell Crowe will link up again with Gladiator director Ridley Scott. Photo / Greg Bowker

New Zealand actor Russell Crowe will play Robin Hood in a new Hollywood epic - as well as the Sheriff of Nottingham.

The controversial Oscar-winner's double has been confirmed - with Sienna Miller as Maid Marian - although he was originally signed just as the villain, London's Mirror reported.

But director Ridley Scott added to the confusion over the Gladiator star's two roles in Nottingham when he said: "It's a good old adjustment of characters. One becomes the other. It changes."

Insiders claim the twist may mean the kind outlaw used to be the sheriff.

The film is unlikely to be released soon. Said Crowe: "We'll take our time. You shouldn't do Robin Hood unless you do it really ****ing well."

- NZPA