Shins frontman James Mercer has landed a role in a forthcoming film which will also star Sleater-Kinney's Carrie Brownstein.

The musical pair will take the lead roles in 'Some Days Are Better Than Others', which is "about lonely people trying to create their own abstract forms of communication", according to director Matt McCormick.

McCormick has previously worked with The Shins on several of their music videos, but says he didn't necessarily write the role for the singer.

"The character isn't necessarily based on James, it was just James's face that was in my head when writing this character," he said. "And then after I did the 'Australia' video I was just completely impressed with his poise and ability to take direction, and eventually decided to give him a shot at playing this role."

The film's set for release next autumn.