Hugh Jackman to star in 'Les Miserables'

Tom Hooper, director of "The King's Speech," is prepping his next film "Les Miserables," and it looks like Hugh Jackman is a hot contender for one of the lead roles. Jackman is currently in talks to play Jean Valjean in the flick based on the Victor Hugo book.

THR says William Nicholson ("Gladiator") penned the script, which follows Valjean, a man who spends time in prison and later becomes the guardian of a young woman. Universal and Working Title are collaborating on the musical adaptation.

Jackman, who recently starred in "X-Men Origins: Wolverine," has "Real Steel" coming soon. He should be on board for a "Wolverine" sequel, but that film does not have a fixed schedule yet. Jackman is also doing voice work for the upcoming "Rise of the Guardians."

Helena Bonham Carter, Guy Pearce join 'Speech'

Tom Hooper's next film "The King's Speech" features quite an impressive cast, as Helena Bonham Carter, Jennifer Ehle, Guy Pearce, Derek Jacobi, Timothy Spall and Michael Gambon boarded the project.

Also starring in the period drama are Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush, according to the Hollywood Reporter. Hopper is directing a script by David Seidler, and filming has already kicked off in England.

What is "The King's Speech" about? Essentially, the story focuses on the relationship between King George VI and his speech therapist Lionel Logue, who supported the king in many ways.

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Tom Hooper to direct Steinbeck's 'East of Eden'

Tom Hooper is set to direct the big-screen adaptation of John Steinbeck's novel "East of Eden" for Univerdal Pictures and producer Brian Grazer.

According to Variety, Christopher Hampton is on board to write the film, a retelling of the Cain and Abel story. The trade says "the multigenerational story focuses on the Trask brothers and a woman who comes between the siblings."

Studios became interested in Steinbeck's book when it jumped to the top of bestseller lists in 2004. Ron Howard was originally attached to direct the film, but he recently dropped out.

Hooper most recently helmed HBO's acclaimed television event "John Adams," which won four Golden Globes. As for Hampton, he penned the screenplay for "Atonement" and "The Quiet American."

Hooper told Variety, "There is an opportunity to show the sex, violence and darkness of Steinbeck's work, along with the optimism and celebration of love."

"East of Eden" is scheduled to head into production later this year.