Josh Hutcherson to star in Ape

Josh Hutcherson is on board to star in ‘Ape’.

The ‘Hunger Games’ heartthrob will produce the psychological thriller for JetLag productions, as well as playing the lead in Miguel Sapochnik’s new film, according to TheWrap.com.

Hutcherson commented: "We strongly believe in the global appeal of this project and we’re excited to work with Bree Herzog and team. ‘Ape’ is a passion project for us and to see it get made would truly be a dream come true."

Bree Herzog, who is also producing under the Atomic Owl banner, added: "Josh is a tremendously talented and versatile actor who has already had an exciting career with roles spanning from blockbuster franchises such as ‘The Hunger Games’ to award-winning independent films like ‘The Kids Are All Right.’

"We couldn’t be happier to be collaborating with Josh and JetLag Productions on ‘Ape’."

Hutcherson admitted he likes when a film’s title doesn’t give anything away, but did reveal he will play a young man who struggles with "mental illness, love and a deep-rooted family secret."

The script has been crafted by newcomer Jon Johnston, while Michelle Fightmaster and Ric Beddingfield are also set to produce.

The movie’s director, Sapochnik, has previously helmed 2010’s ‘Repo Man’ as well as TV series including several episodes of J.J. Abrams’ new drama ‘Revolution’.

Hutcherson is busy filming ‘Paradise Lost’ with Benicio Del Toro and can next be seen as hero Peeta Mellark in ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire’.