Anton Yelchin is Odd Thomas

Anton Yelchin, whose most famous role is arguably that of Chekov in the new Star Trek film, is set to star as Odd Thomas in the film adaptation of the same name. Based on a Dean Koontz series, Odd Thomas is a young man who has the power to see and communicate with the dead. The series has thus far seen four books and a prequel in the form of a graphic novel. No word yet on if the film will be based on the first book or pull from the entire series.

Tapped to direct is Stephen Sommers, which doesn't inspire much confidence. Sommers has previously directed The Mummy and its less-than-stellar sequels, the G.I. Joe film, and the abysmal Van Helsing. Hopefully Sommers can tone down his style for the character-driven Odd Thomas.

Odd Thomas was a decent novel (though I can't say the same for what I read of the first sequel) and, while not the most original idea, should make for an equally decent film. Like I said, I definitely have my doubts about Sommers, but Yelchin is a wonderful actor and can hopefully bring the intensity that the role requires. This is a man with the weight of the undead world on his shoulders; his power being much more of a curse than a gift.

Yelchin can next be seen in the upcoming Mel Gibson film The Beaver and Sommers will be directing the Fantasy Adventure Airbon. No other details about Odd Thomas have been released.