Tom Hardy in talks to star in 'Child 44' 'Safe House' director Daniel Espinosa helming for Scott Free Productions By JUSTIN KROLL (VARIETY)

Tom Hardy continues to add to his already-busy schedule as the "Dark Knight Rises" thesp is in talks to star in the Scott Free production "Child 44."

Daniel Espinosa is helming the pic, with Ridley Scott producing for Scott Free.

Richard Price is penning the script based on the Tom Rob Smith novel. Story is set in the Stalin-era Soviet Union and follows a disgraced lawyer who is dispatched to investigate a series of child murders.

Hardy is first expected to shoot the Fox Searchlight pic "Animal Rescue" with Noomi Rapace in March, followed by "Child 44."

READ MORE: http://www.variety.com/article/VR1118065412/

Tom Hardy & Noomi Rapace: 'Animal Rescue' Stars? (JUST JARED)

Tom Hardy is in final talks to star in the upcoming crime drama Animal Rescue, according to Deadline!

The 35-year-old Dark Knight Rises actor may be joined for the flick by Noomi Rapace – she was reportedly offered the role of the female leading lady!

READ MORE: http://www.justjared.com/2012/12/17/tom-hardy-noomi-rapace-animal-rescue-stars/