Last month we told you that Robert Schwentke (RED, Flightplan) was in the running to direct the big-screen adaptation of Peter M. Lenkov’s graphic novel, published by Dark Horse Comics entitled, R.I.P.D.. Phil Hay and Matt Manfredi are writing the screenplay, and the studio wants to begin shooting the film next Summer when the film’s star, Ryan Reynolds has an opening in his schedule.

Now, Variety reports that Schwentke has been hired by Universal Pictures to direct the supernatural action film. The movie will star Ryan Reynolds (Green Lantern) as one half of a deceased cop duo as they patrol the streets looking to keep restless spirits from misbehaving. The cops are a rookie who has recently died and is looking for his killers, and a gunslinger who’s been on the job for centuries.

R.I.P.D. is slated to hit theaters in 2012.