Madonna meets royal to discuss Edward and Mrs Simpson film

Madonna has been liaising with members of the royal family in an effort to gauge the tone of her forthcoming film about Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson, reports the Sun . Initially the newspaper claimed that Prince Edward and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester were among those who have spoken to the singer turned film director, who plans to release W.E. next year. But following denials from Buckingham Palace, these names were withdrawn; although the involvement of Princess Michael of Kent appears to be under no dispute. It marks Madonna's second directorial effort following the critically panned Filth and Wisdom two years ago, and stars James D'Arcy and Made in Dagenham actress Andrea Riseborough. Madonna has also met with Buckingham Palace staff and leading historians in an effort to maintain historical accuracy, the newspaper says. A source told the Sun: "The entire royal family were contacted and asked if they would like to meet Madonna and production staff – and many took up the opportunity. Some senior figures turned it down. But others, including Princess Michael of Kent, jumped at the chance." In an interview with the director Gus Van Sant in Interview magazine earlier this year, Madonna said her film was not really about Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson's romance. "The Duke and Duchess of Windsor are in the movie, but it's not going to be about them," she said. "It's really about this other woman's journey, and the Duchess is kind of her spiritual guide." The Sun, however, insists the film will be about Edward's decision to give up the throne to marry his true love, who was still wed to her second husband when they met. The newspaper does, however, admit that there is another strand to the narrative which centres on a parallel modern-day romance between a married woman and a Russian security guard. • This article was amended on 12 October 2010 to include updated information aimed at clarifying which members of the royal family may be involved in Madonna's project.