Tom Hanks set for Cloud Atlas

Tom Hanks is being lined up for one of the main roles in new movie ‘Cloud Atlas’. The Oscar-winning actor is wanted to star in director Tom Tykwer’s big screen adaptation of David Mitchell’s acclaimed novel, along with Halle Berry and James McAvoy.

Tykwer – who has previously admitted turning the book into a film was a big challenge – is said to be planning to start shooting next year and is also keen for Sir Ian McKellan and Natalie Portman to take part in the project.

Portman has been linked to the film before so seems likely to sign on.

The story takes place across thousands of years and features six main characters and, according to Tykwer, spans genres including “Melvillean high-seas drama to California noir and dystopian fantasy”.

While the rumoured stars are yet to agree contracts, most of them have a clear schedule for early next year so would be available.