Hoffman, Giamatti to star in 'Version'

LOS ANGELES, May 27 (UPI) -- U.S. actor Dustin Hoffman has agreed to star in a big-screen adaptation of the late Mordecai Richler's last book "Barney's Version."

Variety.com said Hoffman is to co-star with Paul Giamatti in the independent drama, which director Richard J. Lewis is expected to start shooting Aug. 17 in Rome. Lewis previously directed 50 episodes of "CSI."

Hoffman most recently starred in "Last Chance Harvey." The 71-year-old Oscar winner's film credits include "The Graduate," "Little Big Man," "Kramer vs. Kramer" and "Rain Man."

Giamatti won numerous awards for his portrayal of the title character in the 2008 TV miniseries "John Adams." He has also appeared in the movies "Sideways," "Cinderella Man" and "Lady in the Water."