STAR'S DIRECT APPROACH

Madonna is delighted to step behind the cameras for her movie-making debut

QUEEN of pop Madonna started shooting on her new mini film in London yesterday.

And the Razz can exclusively reveal some details about her attempt at breaking into directing.

Filth and Wisdom is Madge's first short - at a planned 30 minutes long. It's a low budget comedy insiders claim will be based on her own life experience.

After getting a sneaky peak at some characters, I agree the storylines will undoubtedly reflect that. Madonna, who earlier in the year directed the TV ad for her M by Madonna campaign with H&M, said: "I am happy to confirm I am working hard on a new project, directing my first short movie.

"While I cannot tell you more about it for now, I am happy to officially reveal its title: Filth and Wisdom. I will finish this in time to go back to the recording studio in July. I hate to be such a tease, but you know how I am."

The shoot is seen as an attempt to prove to hubby Guy Ritchie that she can crack it in the film world as a force to be reckoned with behind the camera.

Madonna has auditioned for actors over the last month and asked for a variety of characters to make her filming dates in London from May 14 - 29.

Among the parts she has created are that of an Indian chemist owner, a Jewish businessman and a failed ballet dancer who ends a up being a pole dancer.

Madge, whose last film role was in the slated Swept Away, was already spotted visiting West London lap dancing club Secret, in a bid to pick up tips on dance technique and find the perfect actress for the part.

The film is expected include lots of raunchy scenes in a similar vein to an Irvine Welsh film and with Madonna's reputation and history of sexual awareness fans shouldn't be disappointed.

An insider said: "Shooting has just started and it's a chance for Madonna to showcase another of her talents.

"It is just a short film at the moment but it's expected to be a hit at film festivals."

Madonna has also just announced that she has recorded a song, Hey You, with Pharrell Williams.

She said: "I'll release it as a Live Earth charity track. I hope you'll support this project. It's very important to me."

Source: Beverley Lyons, The Daily Record