The story of John Lennon is headed for the big screen with "Nowhere Boy," a biopic that will be directed by visual artist Sam Taylor-Wood.

Produced by U.K. shingle Ecosse Films and with a script from "Control" screenwriter Matt Greenhalgh, "Nowhere" will focus on the Beatles legend's childhood and subsequent journey to icon status. Filming is set to take place on location in Lennon's hometown of Liverpool, England.

Greenhalgh's script details the story of Lennon as a lonely teenager growing up torn between his aunt and the mother who gave him up. His only escape is music, art and his fateful friendship with Paul McCartney.

Casting for the major roles "is underway," the backers said of the project that is being co-developed with the U.K. Film Council.

Sales and finance house HanWay Films is handling worldwide sales and will be trying to get sellers to tune in at the upcoming Toronto International Film Festival.

"The women in John's early life truly shaped who he became," Taylor-Wood said, "and the strengths and weaknesses of their relationships are central to this film."

Ecosse and HanWay previously worked together on "Becoming Jane" and "Brideshead Revisited."