Johnny Depp is set to recreate his role as Hunter Thompson in "The Rum Diary" - a movie version of the journalist's first novel about his wild days in Puerto Rico in the 1950s.

To be directed by Bruce Robinson, whose previous work includes cult classic "Withnail and I", the film will also star Benicio Del Toro as Thompson's legal sidekick. Josh Hartnett and Nick Nolte are also reportedly lined up for roles, reports Internet portal Femalefirst.

"So many talented actors are fans of Hunter that casting should be relatively easy," producer Anthony Rhulen said.

Depp had earlier played Thompson in the classic film version of "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas". Thompson, who became famous for his alcohol and drug-fuelled "gonzo" novels, in which the writer took the central role, shot himself dead earlier this year.