Producer Peter Newman has been trying to get a Janis Joplin biopic off the ground for more than 20 years now.

Delays of one sort or another seem to be constantly setting him back. Now, however, it appears the film is gaining some traction.

Reportedly three-time Oscar nominee Michelle Williams is in talks to star as Joplin.

The film is to be based on Love, Janis a book written by her sister, Laura Joplin.

The book tells the story of Joplin's life through her own personal letters written to friends and family.

The story chronicles her career beginning in the early days of performing in coffee houses to her eventual performance at Woodstock.

It also deals with her addiction problems with alcohol and heroin.

Newman owns portions of Joplin's catalog as well as some of her correspondences.

The film will be directed by Sean Durkin. The film's current working title is Janis.