The upcoming film, The Iron Lady is based on the life of Margaret Thatcher – her ascension into power, her reign as Prime Minister and ultimately her downfall in the early nineties.

This iconic film role would have been perfect for a notable British actress who could depict the stoic figure of Thatcher. You’d be forgiven to think they’d found that actress when watching the recently released trailer for the film. The wonderful American actress Meryl Streep was chosen for the leading role, and from the release of the trailer she has Thatcher down to a t.

Meryl Streep is familiar with playing strong women. Streep took on the role of Miranda Priestly in the 2006 film, The Devil Wears Prada - the character rumoured to be based on the infamous US Vogue editor-in-chief, Anna Wintour. Similar to The Devil Wears Prada, Streep has dived into her character effortlessly with Thatcher’s accent and mannerisms faultless.

Streep’s career spans 5 decades with her first on screen role in the 1977 film Julia. Streep never fails to put on a perfect performance and she is well known for adapting to a role and accent with ease.

Film roles Streep has taken on in her great career highlight her versatility to play different types of people, her ability to take on real life characters and capability to adapt her accent where necessary. Examples of her great range of performances include the 2008 film adaptation of the musical Mamma Mia, her award winning performance as a Polish holocaust survivor in Sophie’s Choice, her portrayal of American chef, Julia Child in the 2009 film Julie and Julia, and now taking on the mighty challenge of Margaret Thatcher.

Streep has been highly recognised at many award ceremonies, currently holding the record for most nominated actor ever at the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes. Streep won Best Actress at the Academy Awards in 1982 for her performance in Sophie’s Choice and Best Supporting Actress for her role as Joanna Kramer in the 1979 film Kramer vs. Kramer. It has already been speculated that she will be a runner for many awards in the next awards season for her performance in The Iron Lady.

The buzz around Streep’s performance has already begun, but the film is not due for release until January 6, 2012.