Kevin Costner and Tom Hardy to star in new Tom Clancy adaptations

Kevin Costner is set to star in an as-yet untitled forthcoming film featuring Tom Clancy character Jack Ryan as well as Without Remorse, a spin-off in which Tom Hardy will portray the hero.

According to Deadline.com, Kevin Costner has accepted a role in a Jack Ryan spy movie directed by Kenneth Branagh, with the working title of "Moscow" that will delve into the youth of Tom Clancy's literary character.

Costner will portray Jack Ryan's mentor, an ex-Marine turned financial analyst for a Russian bank. Chris Pine will take on the lead role, previously played by Harrison Ford and Ben Affleck.

The finalized deal between Kevin Costner and Paramount could entail the actor's participation in Without Remorse, based on another Tom Clancy spy novel but focusing on a different hero named John Kelly. Kelly, a Vietnam vet turned diver for oil companies, would be portrayed by Tom Hardy (the villain in The Dark Knight Rises).

Kevin Costner would also take part in that film, reprising his role from the Branagh feature. That spin-off may subsequently be followed up with yet another film in the future featuring both Jack Ryan and John Kelly.