Natalie Portman looks set to direct and star in a film adaptation of Israeli author Amos Oz’s globally acclaimed autobiography.

A Tale Of Love And Darkness recounts Oz’s experiences growing up surrounded by the fighting in Jerusalem which later led to the foundation of an independent Israel.

A spokesperson for Jerusalem Capital Studios says, “JCS has met with Portman to discuss the possibility of her participating in and directing a film version of the book.”

The Leon actress, 25, who was born in Israel, is keen to play the role of Oz’s mother, who committed suicide when he was young.