Tobey Maguire Making Directorial Debut With Former Daniel Espinosa/Leonardo DiCaprio Project 'Blood On Snow'

Tobey Maguire… now there’s a name we haven’t heard in a while. The actor was last seen on the big screen two years ago in the underrated “Pawn Sacrifice,” though he can be heard in multiplexes across the land in the latest animated smash, “The Boss Baby.” But overall, he’s been keeping a low profile, without much seeming on the horizon. However, it looks like he’s ready to change up his career a bit.

The actor is turning director, signing up to helm an adaptation of best-selling author Jo Nesbo‘s “Blood On Snow.” The choice is pretty interesting because Maguire’s pal, Leonardo DiCaprio, was attached to star in the project years ago, with Daniel Espinosa (“Safe House,” “Life“) directing. It never came to pass, and DiCaprio — who was also producing — is no longer involved. Now, Maguire will be among the producers, with the author himself penning the screenplay about a hitman who is ordered to kill his boss’ wife. Here’s the book synopsis:

READ MORE: Seth Rogan & Evan Goldberg To Direct Comic Book Adaptation ‘Invincible’ 

Olav is a fixer for a high-profile crime kingpin in 1970s Oslo. He easily takes care of anyone who causes trouble for his boss. But he is more complicated than he seems. Olav’s latest job puts him at the pinnacle of his trade, but it may become his greatest mistake: It turns out that the more you know about your boss’s business, the more your boss might want you fixed yourself—especially if you’re falling for his wife.

Interesting choice to start a directorial career on, and it’ll certainly be fascinating to see what kind of style Maguire brings to the noirish material. Moreover, he might be right on the cusp of a real Hollywood moment with Nesbo, as the writer’s “The Snowman” starring Michael Fassbender is in the can, while Denis Villeneuve is attached to reunite with Jake Gyllenhaal on “The Son.” [THR]