The boxing film is based on the life of Billy "The Kid" Roth, a former champion who spent almost 45 years as a volunteer boxing coach and father figure in Louisiana’s state prison system. "Billy Roth’s story truly spoke to my heart," Cage said in a statement. "Despite the darkness and intense despair, an unlikely and flawed character is able to find and provide hope to others."

In the movie, Roth comes across a boxer that has potential, but the prisoner, to be played by 50 Cent, is serving out a life sentence. This is the second major movie that 50 Cent has been attached to since the release of his silver-screen debut, Get Rich or Die Tryin’, which was directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jim Sheridan.

The rapper is also attached to the flick Home of the Brave, which also stars actor Samuel L. Jackson. That movie centers on three soldiers who return home from Iraq and have difficulty readjusting to civilian life. The Dance is slated to start shooting after Cage finishes Ghost Rider this spring.