LOS ANGELES - MOTHER of actress Lindsay Lohan, Dina, says the troubled star is a 'genius', media reported on Wednesday.

The Mean Girls actress has been praised for her intellect and ambition by her mother.

According to Mrs Lohan, Lindsay, 23, is on the brink of a return to Hollywood - but this time she will be behind the camera.

"She's a genius and has such a good heart. Lindsay will direct one day. She loves directing!" Mrs Lohan said.

Mrs Lohan, who stars in the Living Lohan reality TV show, predicts a successful comeback, but says the most important thing her daughter can do is to fall hopelessly in love.

"You know what, I taught my children to love. And if you fall in love, life is about that. Family, it's not about work." -- REUTERS