Anne Hathaway is the leading contender to take on the role of Fantine in the upcoming anticipated film version of the musical ‘Les Miserables,’ Broadway World is reporting. The ‘Dark Knight Rises’ actress is at the top of the list for the role, at the urging of Hugh Jackman, with whom she sang with during the opening of the 2009 Academy Awards.

Hathaway has the experience to appear as Fantine, as she portrayed Lili in ‘Carnival!’ at Encores. She was also in some of the workshops for last season’s ‘Promises, Promises.’

‘Les Miserables’ is expected to begin filming in February 2012 in the UK. Jackman will be able to appear in the film as Jean Valjean, as shooting for ‘Wolverine 2’ is believed to be pushed back to the spring of 2012, due to scouting issues. The actor has discussed filming the musical, saying the movie will feature both songs and dialogue to accommodate the medium.

Working Title and Universal are currently developing ‘Les Miserables,’ and ‘The King’s Speech’ director Tom Hooper has signed onto helm the film. Additional actors being considered for the movie include Russell Crowe for Javert; Hayden Panettiere, Miranda Cosgrove, Lucy Hale and Emma Watson for the roles of Eponine and Cosette; and Amy Adams and Rebecca Hall are also being considered for the role of Fantine. Geoffrey Rush and Helena Bonaham Carter, who both appeared in this year’s Oscar winner for Best Picture, may reunite with Hooper to portray Thenardier and Madame Thenardier, respectively.

Written by: Karen Benardello