Anticipated HBO film Hemingway & Gellhorn tells the story of legendary writer Ernest Hemingway and his wife, journalist Martha Gellhorn.

The literary power couple first met in a bar in Key West, Florida, in 1936. The movie chronicles their passionate love affair and tumultuous five-year marriage. 

Directed by Academy Award nominated Philip Kaufman, Hemingway & Gellhorn boasts some serious star power with Clive Owen and Nicole Kidman playing the lead roles. The movie airs in May 2012.

Unlike most biopics about Hemingway, this film is told from Gellhorn's point of view, using direct quotes from the trailblazing war correspondent. Gellhorn inspired one of Hemingway's most enduring works, For Whom the Bell Tolls.

Kidman was immediately attracted to her character.

"There are times when I feel the need to play someone that inspires me," Kidman said at the Television Critics Association winter press tour in Pasadena, California. "Martha inspires me."

She explains that by looking into a character's essence rather than just mannerisms, she is able to approach real life roles:  "I love playing women who defy the odds and burn bright."

Check out the trailer here:

Tags: Clive Owen Nicole Kidman