Although the film was initially announced for Neil Burger (Limitless) to helm, Variety is reporting that due to scheduling conflicts, Bullhead director Michael R. Roskam may now direct with Tom Hardy (The Dark Knight Rises) interested in headlining.

Based on short story by Dennis Lehane, Animal Rescue revolves around a killing that results from a lost and contested pit bull. The story appeared in the Akashic Books anthology "Boston Noir," which Lehane also edited.

Lehane, the author of the novels that led to the films Gone Baby Gone, Shutter Island and Mystic River, adapted the screenplay for "Rescue" himself.

Peter Chernin and Mike Larocca are attached to produce.

(Photo Credit: Apega / WENN.com)