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Trading his stethoscope for a Gavel, actor Karl Urban is apparently in the running to play the legendary comic book hero, Judge Dredd.

But if you are a fan of the original canon and are still reeling after the 1995 adaptation, you will be pleased to know that this new version of the law-enforcing hero has been written by “28 Days Later” scribe Alex Garland, and he is promising to remain closer to the original material.

That means more harsh delivery of justice and less cheesy quips.

Urban, who is perhaps most recognizable for his role of Dr. Leonard McCoy in the new “Star Trek” movie, is said to be being considered for the part even though his face is unlikely to be seen in the entire movie.

"Dredd is enigmatic,” Urban said. He’s "the faceless representative of justice. His prevailing attitudes, his strength of moral character, and the strength of his actions are what speak volumes for that character."

Filming will take place primarily in South Africa, and is being directed by Pete Travis, whose last two films -- "End Game" and "Vantage Point" -- made just over $80 million at the box office, according to Internet Movie Database.

Urban, of course, has an extensive genre film background beyond "Star Trek." He played Eomer in "Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers" and "Lord of the Rings: Return of the King," as well as Vaako in "The Chronicles of Riddick." He also appeared in more than a dozen episodes of "Xena: Warrior Princess" and "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys."

“Judge Dredd” is due to go in front of the cameras in the fall by DNA Films and IM Global, with an aim for a 2012 release.