James McAvoy and Emily Blunt could soon be playing “star-cross’d lovers” on the big screen — but not in the way you may think.

The two actors are in talks to voice the title characters in “Gnomeo and Juliet,” a CGI-animated film loosely based on Shakespeare’s play.

As the title suggests, McAvoy and Blunt would play lovers from rival gardens.

Should Blunt sign on to the role, she would be taking over from Kate Winslet, who was originally attached to voice Juliet but dropped out due to scheduling conflicts.

The film, from Miramax and Elton John’s Rocket Pictures, will feature several of John’s well-known tunes and possibly some new material.

Kelly Asbury, whose credits include “Shrek 2″ and “Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron,” will direct.

The movie is currently in the storyboard stage and is expected to be completed in 2010.

McAvoy, who picked up a Golden Globe nomination for 2007’s “Atonement,” appeared in this summer’s “Wanted,” while Blunt is perhaps best known for her supporting turn in 2006’s “The Devil Wears Prada,” for which she was also nominated for a Golden Globe.






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