Leonardo Dicaprio is thrilled to be working on a Viking movie.

The 'Inception' actor has signed up to star in an as-yet untitled drama - which will be directed by Mel Gibson - and admits he can't wait to start on the project because he is fascinated by history.

He said: "I always wanted to do a Viking movie. I'm a big history buff, and I don't think there's been a really fantastic Viking movie ever made. Those were some of the most barbaric people ever in history."

Although he loves history, Leonardo admits that the biggest draw for him was the opportunity to work with the actor-and-director because he is such a fan of the movies he has previously helmed.

He added to MTV News: "I'd love to see Mel Gibson's version of that, because certainly with 'Apocalypto' and some of the other films he's made, he's been able to transport me back in time unlike very many filmmakers have been able to."