The members of controversial South African rap duo Die Antwoord are to play themselves in District 9 director Neill Blomkamp's new film project.

Yo-Landi Vi$$er, who reportedly turned down the chance to play computer hacker Lisbeth Salander in David Fincher's The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo remake, and her sidekick Ninja have been cast as the leads in "sci-fi comedy" Chappie.

Reports from South Africa suggest filming will begin in and around Johannesburg in September (13).