Timur Bekmambetov (Wanted) is set to direct The Current War, a spec script chronicling the rivalry between Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse as they attempt to create sustainable electricity.

Variety reported the story, with Bekmambetov’s Bazelevs banner purchasing rights to the script, written by Michael Mitnick.

The search will now begin for actors to play the historical figures. Sources say Sacha Baron Cohen had shown interest in playing Edison, but offers could not be made until a director was locked.

Steve Zaillian and Garrett Basch will exec produce through Zaillian’s Film Rites banner.

Does this sound like a film you’d be interested in? What do you think of Bekmambetov’s involvement? How about Baron Cohen potentially playing Edison?