Gary Oldman will write, direct and star in latest passion project Flying Horse

A biopic of motion picture pioneer Eadweard Muybridge

Following an Oscar victory for leading role with Darkest Hour, Gary Oldman’s next project has been announced.

The actor will portray famed photographer Eadweard Muybridge, a pioneer of motion-pictures who had a deeply troubled past, according to Deadline. One infamous incident saw Muybridge – who was born in 1830 – murder his wife’s lover, only to be acquitted by a jury for justifiable homicide.

Oldman has written the script and will direct the film, currently titled Flying Horse. The 60-year-old and fellow production partner Doug Urbanski said in a statement: “We long to make good movies, and that means good stories—and there are few stories as good as these events.

“Launching the first feature from our newly formed production company, Flying Studios, with Tucker makes the entire thing very special for us. We could not wish for a more supportive or collaborative partner.”

Fellow producer Tucker Tooley said: “This project has been a passion of Gary’s for some time, and I am thrilled to reunite with him to bring this compelling story to the big screen.”

Oldman has only helmed one other project before, Nil By Mouth, which premiered at Cannes 1997 and managed 11 BAFTA nominations, leading to Best British Film and Best Screenplay wins.