Johnny Depp to play Mad Hatter

Johnny Depp and Tim Burton team up for Alice in Wonderland

Johnny Depp is to play the Mad Hatter in Tim Burton's new film, Alice in Wonderland.

The actor and director's past collaborations have resulted in some of Depp's most memorable roles, including Willy Wonka, Edward Scissorhands and Sweeney Todd. This will be their seventh film together.

The big-budget production is being financed by Disney, and will be shot in 3-D. Filming will start next year, with release slated for 2010.

Unknown Australian actress Mia Wasikowska has won the title role, although no other roles have had casting confirmed.