Director Edgar Wright eyed for 'Star Trek 3'

Filmmaker Edgar Wright has emerged as the front-runner to take over the third installment of the 'Star Trek' franchise after Roberto Orci reportedly stepped down from the job.

Orci signed on to make his directorial debut with the project last year following JJ Abrams' departure to helm the new 'Star Wars' movie, but he is no longer attached to it, reported Deadline.

He will stay on as a producer, but studio executives at Paramount Pictures are now searching for a new filmmaker, with 'Shaun of the Dead' helmer Wright topping the shortlist of contenders.

'Star Trek 3' is slated for release in 2016.