Malcolm In The Middle star Justin Berfield is turning infamous jewel thief Doris Payne's life story into a new movie.

The young actor-turned-producer felt compelled to tell the 76-year-old African-American's amazing story after visiting her in prison in Nevada.

And, despite the fact that Berfield is only 20, Payne felt so confident he would present her story in the right light, she gave him access for her journals - explaining how she pulled off some of the biggest gem heists in history.

Berfield says, "She was a jewel thief for six decades and worked all over the world. Doris is a magnificent woman and she's incredibly intelligent.

"I aim to tell her story the way it is. It will explore claims she has a mental disorder but I hope to leave it up to the audience to decide whether Doris is a hero or a villain.

"There's no way she shouldn't be punished but it is important to state Doris never physically hurt anybody. She made her living stealing from the rich and from stores."

And there's a slim possibility that Payne might even make it to the premiere of the film, which has yet to start shooting.

Berfield adds, "She could be free in a couple of years."

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)