Russell Crowe and Will Smith to appear in Akiva Goldsman's directorial debut, 'Winter's Tale'

I had almost forgotten about Winter's Tale, the directorial debut by super producer and big time Hollywood screenwriter, Akiva Goldsman. After some issues getting the film rolling(odd considering his status), and a bit of haggling over the budget, Goldsman appears ready to roll, and after flipping through his Rolodex he's scored both Russell Crowe and Will Smith to appear in supporting roles.

Goldsman has quite a history with both men, having written Cinderella Man for Crowe, and I Am Legend for Smith. Their presence all but assures the film will not only get made, but will probably receive a pretty significant push.  Based on the 1983 novel by Mark Helprin, the story is set in a mythical version of New York City, taking place mostly at the turn of the 20th century. It follows Peter Blake, an Irish immigrant and burglar who falls in love with a dying woman he meets while robbing her house. Blake also has a literal guardian angel, which takes the form a flying white horse.

Smith will play a judge, while Crowe is Pearly Soames, a crime boss who becomes a constant thorn in Blake's side. Filming could begin later this year around October, but first Goldsman needs to find his two leads. He got any other celebrities he can pull a favor from? [Vulture]