Jim Carrey has emerged as a leading candidate for the starring role in The Beaver, Kyle Killen's buzz script that topped the Black List.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Steve Carell had previously been loosely attached to play the lead when Jay Roach was talking about directing the pic.

An offbeat dramedy that Anonymous Content is producing, The Beaver centers on the relationship between a man and a beaver puppet he wears on his arm, which he talks to and treats as a companion.

Killen's script has generated enormous interest in development circles, drawing comparisons to Being John Malkovich and Lars and the Real Girl.

Producers are currently seeking a director, with several contenders in the mix, including one novel choice: Jodie Foster, who has had conversations about helming.