(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Daniel Craig was "giddy" when he realised he'd be starring alongside Harrison Ford in Cowboys & Aliens.

The movie is a mixture of science fiction and western and is set in Arizona in 1873. Daniel stars as Jake Lonergan, a wanted outlaw with amnesia who becomes embroiled in a battle with aliens who are trying to take over Earth.

Director Jon Favreau revealed that despite his cool exterior, Daniel was thrilled to be co-starring with veteran American actor Harrison.

"The first guy we hired was Daniel. He seems like a stern fella, but he was giddy when he realised Harrison might be involved," the film maker told BBC Breakfast.

Jon added Daniel is a joy to work alongside. The 44-year-old insists the Bond star was the perfect choice for the role of the mysterious cowboy, despite not being an authentic American.

"Let's put it this way I'm a fan of Daniel Craig. He always has this presence," he explained. "The quiet power that Daniel has really lends itself to this part."

Jon realises the concept of the film is pretty far-fetched. The director-and-actor explained it was a challenge to take on the script initially because he didn't know what he was letting himself in for.

"I didn't know what to expect when I saw the script. I thought it would be a comedy," he quipped. "The irony lies in the juxtaposition of the two genres. It does what it says on the tin!" (C) Cover Media