Enzo Ferrari to Get the Wolverine Treatment?

Film actor Hugh Jackman is said to be in talks to play Enzo Ferrari in the long-rumored movie about the legendary automotive icon, reports Deadline.  

The film will be directed by Michael Mann, with filming expected to start next year, according to the Hollywood trade magazine. Noomi Rapace, who played the title role in the original Swedish version of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, is in line to co-star as Ferrari’s estranged wife Linda.

Plans for the movie, set to be called "Ferrari," have been in the works since the Italian supercar maker’s founder died in 1988 at the age of 90. "Batman" star Christian Bale previously was rumored to be up for the role.

The Australian Jackman is best known for his role as Wolverine in the popular comic book-based "X-Men" film franchise. At 48, he would be about a decade younger than Ferrari was in 1957—the year the proposed movie is expected to chronicle, centering on the aftermath of the crash of a Ferrari 335S race car that killed the driver, co-driver and nine spectators.

Ferrari and the tire manufacturer were charged and tried for manslaughter. The case was dismissed in 1961.

A separate movie with Robert De Niro playing an older version of Ferrari also is in development. Clint Eastwood is slated to direct that film.