Gary Oldman to play Merlin?

Gary Oldman is currently leading the race to play wizard Merlin in the upcoming 'Arthur and Lancelot' film.

According to Deadline, the 'Batman: The Dark Knight Rises' actor is currently the favourite for the movie.

Oldman was born on 21 March 1958 in New Cross, London. He has been married four times, including to Uma Thurman between 1 October 1990 and 30 April 1992.

He is known for portraying characters who are border-line psychotic as well as parts that require different accents.

Oldman is known for playing the villain in 'Fifth Element' (1997), 'Batman Begins' (2005) and 'The Dark Knight' (2008).

'Arthur and Lancelot', which has been written by David Dobkin, who will also direct, will be released in 2013.

So far, the only cast member that has been confirmed is Joel Kinnman, who starred in the US version of 'The Killing'. He will play Lancelot.

Actors currently competing for the role of Arthur include Dominic Cooper, Kit Harrington, Sam Claflin and Liam Hemsworth.