Garrett Hedlund to star in Ang Lee's Iraq war drama

Los Angeles: Actor Garrett Hedlund is in talks to star in Ang Lee-directed movie 'Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk'.

In the film, the 30-year-old actor will play the dynamic, intense, and explosive leader of the Bravo Company squad, Sgt. Dime, reported Deadline.

The adaptation of the Ben Fountain novel centers around 19-year-old private Billy Lynn, who with his mates survived a harrowing Iraq battle that is captured by news cameras.

They are brought home by the US administration for a promotional tour, culminating at the spectacular halftime show of a Thanksgiving Day football game, all while facing an imminent return to the war.

Almost the entire movie takes place during the day of the game, with flashes back to the underlying events and Billy's heroism.

Lee has cast newcomer Joe Alwyn for the title role and Steve Martin has been in talks to star, but it looks like scheduling issues might keep him out of the film.

Hedlund was last seen in the Angelina Jolie-directed 'Unbroken'. His other recent film roles include 'Country Strong', 'Tron Legacy', 'Inside Llewyn Davis', and 'On The Road'. He also co-stars with Oscar Isaac in the William Monahan-directed 'Mojave', which is premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival.