The 24-year-old pop singer from Saint Michael, Barbados, has put herself forward to play the part of Elvira Hancock, who was originally played by Michelle Pfeiffer in the 1983 film, which starred Al Pacino and was written by Oliver Stone. It was itself a remake of the 1932 Howard Hughes film of the same name, starring Paul Muni in the lead role.

Some of Rihanna’s music videos have been influenced by the Elvira Hancock character, who is Tony Montana’s wife in the film. The star has admitted to being a huge fan of the character in the past, saying Elvira has “ridiculous swagger”.

Rihanna made her acting debut in Peter Berg’s action blockbuster Battleship alongside Liam Neeson and Taylor Kitsch earlier this year.

She is also voicing the female lead in upcoming DreamWorks animation Happy Smekday and will make a cameo appearance in an as yet untitled Seth Rogen comedy.

She recently commented: “I didn’t know if I would like it or be good at it. I really enjoyed the experience and I want to do more, try different types of roles so that I can see what I excel in most or like best.”

The remake version will be produced by Marc Shmuger and Martin Bregman, who produced De Palma’s film and is scheduled for release in 2014. A director or stars are yet to be cast.