David Strathairn has signed on to star in a pair of films, the fantasy The Spiderwick Chronicles for Nickelodeon Movies and Paramount Pictures and The Bourne Ultimatum for Universal Pictures.

Mark Waters is directing The Spiderwick Chronicles; Variety says the story centers on three children who move to their great uncle's ancient mansion only to discover a magical book which opens up a new world.

Paul Greengrass is returning as helmer on the third film in the Bourne franchise starring Matt Damon; on the run again, Strathairn will play the leader of a secret operation which is hunting Damon's character.

The Spiderwick Chronicles was released February 14th, 2008 and stars Freddie Highmore, Mary-Louise Parker, Nick Nolte, Sarah Bolger, Andrew McCarthy, Joan Plowright, David Strathairn, Seth Rogen. The film is directed by Mark Waters.

The Bourne Ultimatum was released August 3rd, 2007 and stars Matt Damon, Julia Stiles, David Strathairn, Scott Glenn, Paddy Considine, Édgar Ramírez, Albert Finney, Joan Allen. The film is directed by Paul Greengrass.