Maggie Gyllenhaal almost turned down a starring role in the new Batman film The Dark Night - because she thought the movie would be too mainstream.

The actress is best known for choosing roles in independent, low-budget movies - but was convinced to take on the role after meeting director Christopher Nolan.

She says, "Initially I thought that if it doesn't seem like I can do a good job and have a good time, I don't want to do it."

"I don't want to just do some little movie because it looks interesting, I have to think strategically. It's to do with Peter (Sarsgaard - her partner) and making sure our family comes first."