Farrell tipped for supernatural drama

Colin Farrell has been offered the lead role in 'Winter's Tale'.

The 'Total Recall' star is the top choice for writer and director Akiva Goldsman to star in the supernatural drama based on Mark Helprin's 1983 novel of the same name alongside 'Downton Abbey's Jessica Brown Findlay.

The film - which is set in both the 19th century and contemporary day - tells the story of a dying young woman (Jessica) who falls in love with a thief (Colin) who breaks into her West Side Manhattan mansion

However, if Colin turns down the role, studio Warner Bros. has drawn up a short list of actors who could take his place including Benjamin Walker, Tom Hiddleston, Luke Evans, Aaron Johnson, Garrett Hedlund and Liam Hemsworth.

Russell Crowe and Will Smith are set to take on supporting roles with filming due to begin in New York on October 15.