(Cover) - EN Movies - Ron Howard is reportedly in talks to direct upcoming F1 movie Rush.

Based on true events, the film will tell the story of legendary race driver Niki Lauda, who almost died in a horrific accident but returned to Formula One only six weeks later, with severe burn injuries, to take on rival James Hunt.

If the director signs for the film, he is expected to bring his business partner of 25 years, Brian Grazer, on board. It would mean a return to the car racing genre for Howard, who directed Grand Theft Auto in 1977.

Considering the filmmaker's previous successes, which have seen him direct a host of Oscar-winning performances, Rush could turn out a potentially award-scooping character portrait.

The project is backed by Cross Creek Pictures, the film company behind hit movie Black Swan. (C) Cover Media