Russell Crowe is to join Hugh Jackman in the movie adaptation of hit musical Les Miserables.

Crowe has been in talks to play Inspector Javert in the project for months, and now sources tell trade paper Variety he has signed on for the role.

The King's Speech's Tom Hooper will direct the film, which has a release date of 12 December, 2012.

Although not known for his musical skills, Crowe did front rock band Thirty Odd Foot of Grunts.

Reports suggest Jackman is trying to persuade Anne Hathaway to sign on to play prostitute Fantine in the movie musical.