Tom Hanks in talks to play Geppetto in Disney's live-action 'Pinocchio'

Veteran actor Tom Hanks is in early talks to play Geppetto in the upcoming live-action Disney film Pinocchio.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Oscar-winning actor may play the role of the puppet master in the adaptation which is being directed by Paul King of Paddington.

Based on the 1940 animated film, Pinocchio tells the story of a wooden puppet who wishes to become a real boy after being created by Geppetto. He is brought to life by a fairy, who tells him that he will become a real boy if he shows bravery.

The project is being produced by Chris Weitz and his Depth of Field partner Andrew Miano. The script is by King, Weitz and King's Paddington collaborator Simon Farnaby.

In addition, Oscar winner Guillermo del Toro is writing and directing a stop-motion animated musical based on the story of Pinocchio for Netflix.