As part of his new alliance with Hollywood's United Artists film studio, actor Tom Cruise has signed on to star in the upcoming drama, "Lions to Lambs."

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The Matthew Carnahan-scripted drama will mark the first effort from the 44-year-old actor and his business partner, Paula Wagner, at the studio since the duo agreed to help revive it for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Inc., said Daily Variety.

If all related deals are completed in time for an early 2007 production date, MGM could offer the first film from Cruise/Wagner Productions as soon as next fall.

The film, which Cruise was said to be eyeing even before joining United Artists, will be directed by Robert Redford, who will also co-star in the multi-storyline drama.

Daily Variety said the film's production will likely be pushed through quickly, as all involved parties are seeking to prove that the film partnership was not simply a promotional tool to fix Cruise's beleaguered public image.