Hugh Jackman: Cast as lead role in 'Prisoners'

Hugh Jackman: Cast as lead role in 'Prisoners'

Hunky and versatile Hugh Jackman has been cast in the lead role in Prisoners.

Alcon Entertainment has unveiled the new dramatic thriller from Incendies director Denis Villeneuve.

Jackman will star as small town carpenter Keller, whose young daughter and best friend are kidnapped.

He takes the case into his own hands when the police fail to find the missing pair, running up against the big city detective leading the investigations.

"We are ecstatic that Hugh will take the lead in this exciting thriller", said Alcon co-founders and co-CEOs Andrew Kosove and Broderick Johnson.

"We can think of no better Keller - an everyman who rises to an occasion most of us could not imagine possible. Denis's rare directing gifts are superbly matched to this material, that is both challenging and explores complex themes in a commercially appealing narrative."

The film was written by Aaron Guzikowski (Contraband).

Once Jackman completes work on 'The Wolverine', production will begin in 2013.

Currently, the actor is shooting 'Les Misérables' for a December release.