Wednesday October 14, 04:46 PM

Justin Long delves into drama with "Conspirator"

LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - Justin Long is joining James McAvoy and Robin Wright Penn in "The Conspirator," the historical drama that Robert Redford is directing.

"Conspirator" tells the story of Confederate sympathizer Mary Surratt (Wright Penn), who was tried as a conspirator in the Lincoln assassination, and Col. Frederick Aiken (McAvoy), who reluctantly agreed to defend her before a military tribunal.

Long plays a soldier who lost a limb in the Civil War and is McAvoy's best friend and conscience.

The period drama is a first for Long, who is known for his comedic sensibilities and horror-flick appearances.

Long recently wrapped the romantic comedy "Going the Distance" opposite Drew Barrymore. He will next be seen opposite Liam Neeson in the supernatural thriller "After.Life" and with Michael Cera in Miguel Arteta's coming-of-age comedy "Youth in Revolt."

(Editing by SheriLinden at Reuters)