AceShowbiz -

Marking his return to film directing after his 2003 indie work of "The Station Agent", actor Thomas McCarthy is set to helm also write "The Visitor" for Participant and Groundswell Productions, Variety has reported.

A drama comedy feature, the movie centers on a widower whose ordinary life is turned upside down after bumping into two illegal immigrants, one of whom he later befriends and tries to help when discovered by U.S. immigration authorities. "North Country" star Richard Jenkins has been signed on to play a role with Mary Jane Skalski seating as producer. Production is expected to start by October 2 in New York.

Making his foray in acting field in early 1990s, McCarthy is last seen on the big screen playing alongside George Clooney and Robert Downey Jr. in "Syriana." His upcoming film projects include "The Situation", "Beautiful Ohio", and "Year of the Dog."