George Clooney to star in Soderbergh s Man From U.N.C.L.E?

LONDON, UK - Actor George Clooney is in talks to portray the role of Napoleon Solo in the film adaptation of the 'Man From U.N.C.L.E' to be directed by Steven Soderbergh.

The 1960s TV show was very popular at the height of the Cold War, which aired from 1964 to 1968, just after the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. George Clooney met Soderbergh according to bbc.co.uk to discuss his potential invovelment with the project.

Clooney's latest thriller 'The American' showed a darker, and more calculating character, which received positive reviews.

Steven Soderberg and George Clooney collaborations

The two have worked together on numerous occasions, most notably on Ocean's 11 and subsequent sequels. Soderbergh also directed 'Out of Sight' starring Clooney and Jennifer Lopez. Although the film didn't receive a 'standing ovation', it is thought that this movie propelled him into the spotlight as a leading actor.

Syriana, released in 2005 was also a successful team up between the two, that became a critical success and in which Clooney won an Oscar. Ocean's 11 co-star Matt Damon also had a minor role in the film.

George Clooney in the director's seat

Being in the director's seat is something Clooney has enjoyed in the past, and is currently working on his latest political drama 'Ides of March.' This will be Clooney's latest outing in the director's chair, which is an adaptation of the Broadway play ' Farragut North'. Clooney is also set to star in it alongside actor Paul Giamatti and Ryan Gosling.

In 2005, Clooney directed his first feature 'Good Night And Good Luck', a political thriller set in 1950s America during the McCarthy era that was a big success and critics praised his ability to recreate the era so vividly and accurately. The story is about Edward R. Murrow, a broadcast journalist who seeks to bring down senator Joseph McCarthy. Edward is played by actor David Strathairn whilst Clooney plays a small role in the film as Fred Friendly.