Darren Aronofsky ("Requiem for a Dream," "The Fountain") is in final talks to direct Paramount Pictures boxing drama "The Fighter."

The project marks a reteaming of "The Departed" stars Mark Wahlberg and Matt Damon, whilst the conventional narrative would mark a departure for Aronofsky.

Based on the life of boxer "Irish" Mickey Ward (Wahlberg) and his trainer brother Dick Eklund (Damon), the story chronicles their early days on the rough streets of Lowell, Massachusettes.

It also covers Eklund's battle with drugs and Ward's eventual world championship in London. All three are awaiting a Paul Attanasio rewrite before signing on.

If they approve, it will be the next project of all three and could begin filming as early as this Summer.