Film stars Samuel L Jackson.

Tom Wilkinson, who is currently starring in the TV mini-series The Kennedys, has joined the cast of The Samaritan, which also stars Samuel L. Jackson, Luke Kirby and Ruth Negga.

Wilkinson is set to play the head of a criminal empire in the film, which follows an ex-con, played by Jackson, who after 20 years in prison hopes to make a fresh start.

“Tom Wilkinson is one of the industry’s most respected actors,” said producer Andras Hamori. “It’s an honour to welcome such an extraordinary performer to our cast.”

Shooting for the film has already begun in Toronto, with principal photography set to finish in Rio de Janiero in late April.

David Weaver will direct from a script he co-wrote with Elan Mastai.

Mark Horowitz is handing international sales for H2O Motion Pictures and Quickfire Films.