Coen Brothers to write new Steven Spielberg thriller starring Tom Hanks

The film-making duo will pen the script for the Cold War spy thriller

Film-making duo Joel and Ethan Coen are due to pen the scrip to Steven Spielberg's new project (Getty Images)

The Coen Brothers are reportedly on board to write a draft for Steven Spielberg’s next film, which is due to star Tom Hanks.

Joel and Ethan Coen will pen a draft of the screenplay that tells the true story of James Donovan, a lawyer who was thrust into the centre of the Cold War when he negotiated with the KGB for the release of downed US spy plane pilot Gary Powers.

The Cold War thriller is expected to be Spielberg’s next project, following news he will direct the Big Friendly Giant at the beginning of 2015.

Tom Hanks is attacked to the project, but has yet to be confirmed for the lead role, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The unnamed film is among a number of projects Steven Spielberg is reported to be considering directing, including sci-fi thriller Robopocalypse and historical drama Montezuma.

The Coen Brothers have won two Oscars for their screenplays No Country for Old Men (2007) and Fargo (1996), which has been adapted into a recent TV series.

Their latest film Inside Llewyn Davis, which they wrote and directed, was nominated for two Oscars earlier this year.

Joel and Ethan Coen have also written the screenplay to forthcoming film Unbroken, directed by Angelina Jolie.

Read more: Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg to reunite for Cold War spy thriller
Why the Coen Brothers' Fargo works as a TV series