Known for his role as Batman's Bane among other notable parts, actor Tom Hardy is next set to portray Elton John in a new biopic about the musician titled Rocketman, announced this week.

The film, which has been described as a "larger than life music spectacle," is being developed by the musician's own production studio, Rocket Pictures, and will be released by Focus Features.

"Tom is a stellar talent who will add extraordinary depth and nuance in bringing Elton's story to life," Rocket Pictures CEO Steve Hamilton Shaw said in a press release. "We are excited to have such a gifted actor on board, and equally excited to be in the hands of Peter Schlessel and the entire Focus Features team."

New Focus Features CEO Peter Schlessel brought the title with him from FilmDistrict. The studio paid a whopping $10 million to obtain U.S. rights for the film. As part of the same announcement, Schlessel spoke about casting the British actor in the lead role.

"Tom is quickly becoming known as one of the world's most versatile actors, and like others at the top of their craft, he has proven his ability to transform himself completely into the character or subject found in the material," he said. "We are confident that Tom will embody the physicality and spirit of Sir Elton. This, in conjunction with the creative team led by Michael and Rocket Pictures, will provide the foundation for something that will be a unique cinematic event."

Rocketman will be directed by Michael Gracey and the screenplay will be written by Lee Hall (War Horse, Billy Elliot). Filming will start in fall of 2014 and John will be re-recording many of his hits to "to parallel the emotional beats of the film."

Hardy portrayed the infamous Charles Bronson in a 2008 biopic about the dangerous criminal.

Watch Hardy in a clip from Bronson:

Tags
Tom Hardy, Elton John