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Dustin Hoffman will topline opposite Paul Giamatti in indie drama "Barney's Version," based on Mordecai Richler's final novel, with Robert Lantos ("Adoration") producing through his Serendipity Point banner.

Richard J. Lewis will direct from the adaptation by Michael Konyves. Principal photography will begin Aug. 17 in Rome.

Hoffman, who most recently starred in "Last Chance Harvey," will play a retired cop and father of the story's title character -- who has led a reckless life highlighted by three marriages, two children and status as a "person of interest" in the mysterious disappearance of his friend.

"Barney's Version" is produced by Serendipity Point in association with Italy's Fandango and Montreal's Lyla Films. Co-producers are Domenico Procacci ("Gomorrah"), Lyse Lafontaine and Ari Lantos, with Mark Musselman exec producing; investors include Astral Media, Corus Entertainment, Telefilm Canada, Sodec, HGF, OMDC and CBC.

Two of Richler's novels have been adapted into features -- "The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz" and "Joshua Then and Now," which Lantos produced. Lantos' credits include "Eastern Promises," "Being Julia," "Sunshine" and "The Sweet Hereafter."