Casting couch

MELANIE GRIFFITH has joined the cast of Shade, a film set in the world of poker hustlers working the clubs and martini bars of Los Angeles. She will co-star with Sylvester Stallone, Thandie Newton, Stuart Townsend and Gabriel Byrne.

COMEDIAN Chris Tucker is the new front-runner to snag the lead role in a 2003 re-make of The Pink Panther for director Ivan Reitman (Twins).

NICOLAS CAGE is shooting Matchstick Men for director Ridley Scott. Following this, Scott will direct Russell Crowe in the period adventure drama, Tripoli.