Actor Ryan Gosling is confirmed to direct his first feature film How to Catch a Monster.

The star also penned the screenplay for the fantasy noir picture.

Deadline reports that Ryan’s Drive co-star Christina Hendricks will be How to Catch a Monster’s leading lady.

The film’s plot centres on a single mother named Billy, who is portrayed by Christina. The modern fairy tale follows Billy on her journey into a morbid underworld after her teenage son discovers a path to the supernatural realm.

Ryan is elated to begin work on the project.

"I am very appreciative to Marc Platt, Adam Siegel and Bold Films for being so supportive, and I look forward to making this film with all of them," Ryan said in a statement.

Ryan’s company Phantasma will take on production along with Marc and Adam at Marc Platt Productions and Michel Litvak and David Lancaster at Bold Films.

Bold is also financing the movie.“We have a tremendous amount of trust and confidence in Ryan, Christina, Marc and Adam, both personally and professionally,” Michel noted.

"We responded immediately to Ryan's script and look forward to nurturing the next phase of his career and continuing Bold's commitment to an artistically collaborative environment."

How to Catch a Monster will begin filming next spring.