Pattinson's new film role

The actor will star in new Cronenberg film

Twilight heartthrob Robert Pattinson has landed the starring role in Cosmopolis.

Pattinson will play Eric Packer, a financial genius who puts his personal fortune at risk by betting it against the yen during a particularly chaotic day in the world of finance.

The film, adapted from a Don DeLillo's novel of the same day, will be directed by David Cronenberg and will be released in 2012.

Oscar winner Marion Cotillard, Paul Giamatti and Colin Farrell are rumoured to be co-starring in the movie.