Wood to head up 'Oxford Murders' cast

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Elijah Wood will head an international cast for the mystery, "Oxford Murders," which is set to begin filming next month in England.

The English-language by Spanish director Alex de la Iglesia is set to start shooting Jan. 22 in both London and Oxford, The Hollywood Reporter said.

"I'm delighted to work with Elijah, who undoubtedly has the most powerful eyes in the industry and who is perfect for the part," de la Iglesia said.

Wood will play an Oxford student who tries to solve a murder and stop possible future murders under the tutelage of a Sherlock Holmes-like mentor, played by British actor John Hurt.

The film is de la Iglesia's first foray outside his typical black comedy genre into more dramatic fare, the newspaper said.