Javier Bardem may be playing one of Universal's most famous monsters--or the man who made it.

Javier Bardem in No Country for Old Men

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Variety reports that Bardem is "in talks to star as Frankenstein" in Universal's monster universe. The shared universe will bring together several monsters inspired by the classic movie series, but the report doesn't detail which film Bardem would first appear in. Nor does it specify whether he will play Dr. Frankenstein or Frankenstein's Monster, which is sometimes colloquially referred to simply as "Frankenstein."Sources have confirmed to IGN that the actor is not necessarily in negotiations for a specific Frankenstein movie at the moment as much as he is for the “role of Frankenstein,” which could play a part in the shared universe overall. Those same sources would not clarify if he will play the doctor or the monster, which has certainly piqued our interest on the matter. Tom Cruise and Russell Crowe are currently finishing The Mummy , which will serve as the first in the series and also stars Sofia Boutella (Star Trek Beyond) as the titular creature. (Crowe plays Dr. Henry Jekyll.) Johnny Depp is rumored to be playing the Invisible Man in a different film, and Universal is also planning a Bride of Frankenstein feature. Bardem is expected to make his first appearance before that film, however. Certainly news of his potential casting coming now while The Mummy is still shooting could indicate that he'll have a cameo in that film.For more on Universal's shared monster universe, keep it right here at IGN.

Steve Watts is a freelance writer, but it's a common misconception. His actual name is Steve Watts' Monster. You can read more of his keen insights by following him on Twitter and IGN Negotiations