I've been Nicole Kidman's fan for many years: Sofia Coppola

Director Sofia Coppola says she has been a long-term fan of Hollywood star Nicole Kidman.

The 46-year-old filmmaker says she knew no one could play the role of Martha Farnsworth in her recently-released film "The Beguiled" better than the actress, according to Daily Telegraph newspaper.

"I've been a fan for many years. I had her (Kidman) in my head when I was writing the headmistress. Her gravitas and her humour, I knew would fit perfectly," says Coppola.