Things appear to be coming together for the upcoming U.K. film Theatre of Dreams. Word is, several actors have signed on for roles in the movie, and David Scheinmann is set to direct.

While you might guess by the title that this movie has something to do with theater, or perhaps a progressive metal band featuring John Petrucci, soccer/football fans may recognize the title as the nickname of the ground on which soccer team Manchester United plays their home games. They’d be in the right track, if that’s the case. The movie is described as a “fictional coming-of-age drama about how the club’s legendary manager Matt Busby helps an 11-year-old rascal fulfill his footballing dreams.” The Hollywood Reporter posted the updates on the film, including that Scheinmann will be directing. IMDB doesn’t have a lot on the director, other than that he’s credited for directing a 2006 film called The West Wittering Affair and an upcoming film called My Next Breath, which is currently filming.


As for the cast, these names may be a bit more recognizable. On board to star in the film is Natascha McElhone, who’s well known to fans of Californication for her role as the love of Hank Moody’s life, Karen. Brian Cox, who played the original Hannibal Lector in Manhunter, is also set to star, along with Anne Reid and Philip Jackson. And after a nation-wide search for the child-lead, 10-year-old Jack Smith won the role.

THR says Theater of Dreams will be distributed in the U.K. in 2012. No word on when and if it’ll be released on this side of the pond. Hopefully it does. Between the cast and the simple, yet enticing premise about a kid's attempt to excel at soccer, this one could be a winner.