Laurel & Hardy film "Stan & Ollie" will star Steve Coogan as Stan Laurel and John C. Reilly as Oliver Hardy, BBC Films announced on Monday, according to The Wrap.
The film, described as "an epic story about the world's most famous comedy double-act to date, told with great insight and heart," centers on the life of the duo during their final comedy tour in 1953, which becomes a hit despite fading popularity and low turnout.
Jeff Pope, who has previously worked with Coogan on Oscar-nominated "Philomena," penned the screenplay, which will be helmed by "Filth" director Jon S. Baird. Faye Ward's Fable Pictures will produce the project whereas BBC Films' Christine Langan and Nichola Martin will serve as executive producers along with Pope and Gabriella Tana for Sonesta Films, according to Deadline.
"Like so many others I grew up watching Laurel and Hardy and I'm therefore honoured to help bring this incredible true story of love, laughter and friendship to the big screen," Baird said, BBC News reported.
"John C. Reilly and Steve Coogan are dream casting for 'Stan & Ollie,' bringing to life with uncanny accuracy and irresistible gusto the genius creative marriage that Jeff Pope's script explores so lovingly," said Langan.
