Gervais rejects Allen film role

Ricky Gervais has rejected the opportunity to work with Woody Allen because he believes the legendary director has lost his touch.

The comedian cites 1972 comedy Play It Again Sam as one of his favourite movies, but said Allen has become too serious in his last few projects.

Gervais revealed that he was offered a role in one of the director's recent productions, but lost interest when he found out who else was lined up to appear.

He told The Independent: "When I saw the rest of the cast - other British people on telly - I just pulled out of it. I thought: that's no fun.

"This is the Woody Allen who doesn't know. He thinks these people are all good because he likes the accent. Woody Allen isn't Woody Allen any more."