Hayek returns to Spanish-language film

Actress to produce, star in 'La Banda'

By DAVE MCNARY

Hayek

Salma Hayek will topline and produce Spanish-language romantic comedy "La Banda," aiming the project at her Latin American fan base and as a potential crossover vehicle in the United States.

The independently financed project -- centered on Grupero music -- will start shooting in Mexico this summer with Rick Schwartz (co-producer on "The Departed") and Pepe Tamez also producing. Issa Lopez, who just directed her first feature in Mexico for Warner Bros., is writing and directing.

"La Banda" is the first Spanish-language job in Mexico for Hayek since she starred in telenovelas more than a decade ago. A soundtrack album, with Hayek performing, also is planned.

Hayek will portray a wealthy housewife who falls on hard times when her husband leaves. She takes a job as a singer for a wedding band while keeping her involvement secret from her high-society friends and family, but it becomes a tricky balancing act as the band gains in popularity.

Project's being developed in the wake of the breakout success of "Ugly Betty," on which Hayek is exec producer. The Touchstone and Reveille skein, based on hit telenovela "Yo soy Betty la fea," won two Golden Globes last week.