A new film is eyeing Leonardo DiCaprio to take the lead role. New Regency has acquired the screen rights to a novel, which the actor is set to produce as well.

"Beat the Reaper," a novel by Josh Bazell, tells the story of a Manhattan emergency room doctor, who became entangled with trouble when a mobster recognizes him from his former life as a hitman who joined the witness protection program.

Julie Yorn and Jennifer Davisson Killoran will also produce.

DiCaprio is currently nominated for a Best Actor in Golden Globes for his role in "Revolutionary Road," released last month.