Sydney, AU (Sony BMG Music Entertainment) - Not content with just being a rock star, Avril Lavinge is set to appear in a new film starring Richard Gere and Claire Danes. The Canadian punk princess has a small role in the crime drama called 'The Flock', and will begin shooting in New Mexico at the end of the week. Avril is also gearing up to start work on her third album in the new year.

If Avril Lavigne's video clips are anything to go by, then acting should come naturally to the talented star. The video for her single 'Nobody's Home' featured Avril in her first acting role, and proved that this is one singer who will definitely be able to make the transition to the silver screen easily!

Avril told her website that her role in the film will vary things up a bit for her.
"I want to do this for a bit of a change," she said. "I want to start off small, see how I like it and make sure I'm comfortable."

Avril (or her voice, at any rate) will also be appearing in an upcoming animated feature film called 'Over The Hedge'. She'll be playing the role of a possum named Heather alongside William Shatner, Bruce Willis and Gary Shandling.

"My part's pretty small so it was easy enough, but it was my first ever film," Avril told her website. "It was easier because it was just voiceover so I didn't have to be on camera and it was fun."
Avril has already begun writing tracks for her new album, which looks like being recorded in 2006. Watch this space for all the latest updates on the fabulous Ms Lavigne!