After playing a pirate in Pirates of the Caribbean series, versatile Hollywood actor Johnny Depp is set to play the Mad Hatter in the film version of Alice in Wonderland.

Thesun.co.uk reports the movie will be shot in 3D and Depp teams up with his friend and collaborator, director Tim Burton. The two have worked together on six movies.

A source said: "Burton has had designs on Alice In Wonderland since before he was famous. He has a knack for turning what seem like stories for just kids into gripping, spooky fables loved just as much by adults. He's held out on doing Alice till he got a big enough budget. Now this film is financed by Disney so money won't be a problem."

Unknown actress Mia Wasikowska will play Alice. Production will start next year and the release is planned for the summer of 2010.