The iconic movie is the latest to be given a feminist makeover with Lena Dunham set to star in the lead role.

Universal pictures have confirmed production has already begun on the reboot which boasts an A-list cast that includes big stars Amy Schumer and Melissa McCarthy.

The musical drama was originally released in 1973 and centers on the conflict between Judas and Jesus. It is based on the succesful rock opera written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice.

The upcoming movie will see Mary Magdalene portrayed as transgendered while the Virgin Mary has been re-imagined as a single Mom who identifies as asexual, in a move which has received widespread praise from the LGBT community.

Celebrated director Kathryn Bigelow has signed up for the project which sees Ghostbusters star Leslie Jones cast as Judas while Hollywood veteran Meryl Streep takes on the role of Pontius Pilate.

Bigelow has spoken of her delight with the all female cast saying, “If the bible was written today it would definitely have more female characters in it.” The Oscar-winning director told reporters she felt Dunham was the perfect choice to play Jesus explaining, “I think Lena is so brave. She understands the sense of victimhood in the character of Jesus.”

Filming is due to start later this month with a release date yet to be confirmed.