Benedict Cumberbatch offered Ian Fleming role in big screen biopic

British actor and "Sherlock" star Benedict Cumberbatch has been offered the starring role in the under-development Ian Fleming biopic detailing the origin stories of James Bond, according to The Tracking Board.

The film is an adaptation of the 2009 biography by Andrew Lycett and details Fleming’s experiences in WWII where he found inspiration for the character. K5 and Animus Films are producing the independent feature, and scribe Matthew Brown is penning the script.

It was to be directed by "Moon" helmer Duncan Jones, before the Brit pulled out of the project due to commitments on his upcoming "Warcraft" movie.

A new director has yet to be announced.

The budget for the Fleming biopic is said to be around £40m-£50m.

Earlier this year, Sky Atlantic and BBC America released 'Fleming', a television mini-series based on the life of 007's creator.

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