Paramount is set to back Darren Aronofsky's 'Noah'.

The studio is reportedly close to a deal to secure production rights on the forthcoming epic, alongside New Regency, to support the $100 million-plus project, Deadline.com reports.

Christian Bale is being lined up for a leading role in the movie, which expands on the classic Biblical tale of the man told by God to build an ark to save every animal and continue the human race after the almighty decides to flood the earth.

The project would be the first for Darren following on from his success with 'Black Swan' - which won Natalie Portman a Best Actress Oscar - and his departure from directing the planned 'Wolverine' movie.

John Logan, known for his work on 'Gladiator' and 'The Aviator' is currently editing The Script.

Discussing his departure from the 'Wolverine' story recently, Darren confessed he was concerned about being away from his family for the long period of the shoot.

He said: "As I talked more about the film with my collaborators at Fox, it became clear that the production of 'The Wolverine' would keep me out of the country for almost a year. I was not comfortable being away from my family for that length of time.

"I am sad that I won't be able to see the project through, as it is a terrific script and I was very much looking forward to working with my friend, Hugh Jackman, again."