The biopic "The Ballad of Richard Jewell" has piqued Clint Eastwood's interest.

The actor-slash-director may helm the project. He has been in talks to direct after previously showing signs of interest, "Overlord"), based on a Vanity Fair article.

Jewell's story is a sad one. He was a security guard during the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta when he found a suspicious backpack on the grounds and helped evacuate people. Despite initially being billed a hero, he faced public scorn when it was reported that police considered him a suspect. Ultimately, his name was cleared and the real perpetrator found, but he never recovered from the experience.

Eastwood is a four-time Academy Award winner, twice taking home Oscars for Best Director (for "Sully."

If Eastwood does direct the project, he'll put together the cast, per Deadline. Leonardo Dicaprio and Jennifer Davisson. Misher Film's Andy Berman is also involved, and Fox's Mike Ireland is overseeing.

[via: Deadline]