The Wachowskis are due for another hit. Since making a surprise leap to the A-list in 1999 with The Matrix, their output has been truly disappointing, with both Matrix sequels coming out as duds and Speed Racer failing to impress most. You know what's a great way to get back on top, though? Finding a distributor for your next film and signing one of the biggest movie stars of all time. And that's just what they've done.

Deadline is reporting that Focus Features has signed up to distribute Cloud Atlas - an adaptation of the David Mitchell novel that they are co-directing with Tom Tykwer - and Tom Hanks has been officially cast. Hanks has actually been rumored for the project for quite a long time alongside James McAvoy, Halle Berry, and Natalie Portman none of whom, according to the new story, are official just yet. The story follows six separate storylines, set in the past, present and future, that intersect and affect each other in different ways. Shooting is scheduled to begin in September.

Just from the description, the project sounds incredibly ambitious, and having a name like Hanks attached may prove to be invaluable. As proven by the trailer for Larry Crowne, the guy is just too insanely likeable to ever be ignored.