James Franco in talks to direct and star in Shel Silverstein biopic

Looks like James Franco has already found his next reality-based project to star in.

The actor and filmmaker has recently finished his self-directed Tommy Wiseau biopic The Disaster Artist and now he’s looking into starring and directing a movie about the life and legacy of American poet and singer-songwriter Shel Silverstein. Silverstein, who died in 1999 wrote several iconic works of children’s literature, including The Giving Tree, Where the Sidewalk Ends, and Falling Up.

EW confirmed that Franco is in talks to helm the project for the new MWM Studios, formerly OddLot Entertainment. Under its previous banner, MWM contributed to the production of films like Drive, Hell or High Water and Rabbit Hole.

Also working on the project is producer for the upcoming Amy Schumer comedy I Fell Pretty as well as other personnel from Wonderland Sound and Vision. Penning the script are cowriters Chris Shafer and Paul Vickair. The script is said to be a take on the writer’s personal and professional dealings, based on Lisa Rogak’s book A Boy Named Shel.