We reported way back in April 2009 that a new film was moving forward based off the true story of an African-American servant at the White House and now that film is finally moving forward with a new writer-director. Deadline New York is reporting that Precious director Lee Daniels will direct The Butler.

Daniels will rewrite the original script by Recount writer Danny Strong and will direct as well. The film tells the true story of Eugene Allen, who worked in the White House for 34 years and served under eight presidents, all of whom struggled with segregation issues, in a story that leads into the inauguration of President Obama.

It was said that the film could be ready to shoot by the end of the year and that he has also approached Denzel Washington to portray the lead role. The site also reported that Daniels's film Selma - which revolves around the historic Civil Rights March lead by Martin Luther King Jr. - is still looking for funding and Daniels would likely move forward with The Butler if Selma funding isn't secured in the near future.

We'll be sure to keep you posted on any further details on The Butler as soon as more information arrives.