Universal Acquires Rights to Hanks Directed 'Larry Crowne'

As previously announced, Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts are teaming up again for the upcoming film "Larry Crowne." Hanks, who has written the script, will also direct the film.  This will be his first directing stint in over a decade (he directed "That Thing You Do" in 1996). The plot for "Larry Crowne" involves a middle-aged man who is forced to find a new career.

According to a report in Variety, Universal has acquired domestic rights for "Larry Crowne," and filming will commence in April. 

Hanks and Roberts were last seen together on the silver screen in 2007's "Charlie Wilson's War." These accomplished actors have very different backgrounds when it comes to theatre.

Hanks started his career on stage and migrated to film, becoming, as many call him, the nicest guy in Hollywood, and winning two Academy Awards (Forest Gump, Philadelphia). Some film credits include Splash, Apollo 13, Saving Private Ryan, Sleepless in Seattle, You've Got Mail, The Green Mile, Cast Away, and Catch Me If You Can.

Roberts became well known in the early 1990s after starring in Pretty Woman. She starred in a string of romantic comedies including My Best Friend's Wedding, Mystic Pizza, Notting Hill, and Runaway Bride. She won the Academy Award for her portrayal in Erin Brockovich. She made her Broadway debut in 2006 in Richard Greenberg's Three Days of Rain opposite Bradley Cooper and Paul Rudd.