Theron signs up for 'Road' trip

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 15 (UPI) -- Oscar-winning South African actress Charlize Theron is reportedly set to co-star with Viggo Mortensen in the new big-screen drama "The Road."

The film is an adaptation of Cormac McCarthy's novel of the same name.

A movie version of the author's work "No Country for Old Men" has earned critical praise and numerous prizes this awards season.

Australian director John Hillcoat plans to helm "The Road," the story of a man trying to transport his son to safety while fending off cannibals after a nuclear explosion, Variety.com reported Tuesday.

Theron would play a small role seen mainly in flashback, the entertainment industry trade paper said.

She reportedly took the part because she loves the book.

The film is scheduled to begin shooting next month.

Theron is best-known for her roles in "Monster" and "North Country."