French film star Jean-Paul Belmondo may soon make his comeback

(AFP)
Updated: 2007-07-29 16:52

PARIS - France's legendary film star Jean-Paul Belmondo may return to the silver screen at the ripe age of 74, emerging after some six years of recovery from a stroke.

Belmondo's return would be directed by Francis Huster who wants to produce a new version of the film "Umberto D.", the 1951 master work of Italian director Vittorio de Sica, Le Parisien newspaper said, citing Ici-Paris magazine.

When contacted by AFP, the actor's wife, Natty Belmondo, confirmed the project and the actor's "joy" about doing a new version, but added that "nothing has been signed yet."

The film "Umberto D.", which would have the French title "A man and his dog," tells the story of a retired teacher who lives in misery with a dog as his only companion.

According to sources close to the production, the film's insurers have not yet given their approval.

Belmondo's last film was "Amazones" with Arielle Dombasle in July 2001.

In August that year, Belmondo suffered a serious stroke while on vacation in Corsica which left him partially paralyzed. Since then the actor has undergone intensive therapy and has made consistent progress.

In December 2002, he married Natty, his companion of 13 years, and in August 2003, he became a father for the fourth time with the birth of his daughter Stella.