Russell Crowe to Head Darren Aronofsky's Biblical Epic 'Noah?'
Russell Crowe is now being considered for the lead role in Darren Aronofsky's biblical epic "Noah," though nothing has been confirmed as of yet.
The provocative "Black Swan" and "Requiem for a Dream" director has indicated a desire to work with the award-winning Crowe on his upcoming film, according to Deadline.com, which will purportedly be a loyal interpretation of the original Noah's Ark story found in Genesis.
Previously, the film was linked to Christian Bale and Michael Fassbender, who both eventually pulled out of the lead due to their conflicting schedules – the former set to work with Terrence Malick on a pair of his upcoming films while the latter will reunite with his "Shame" director Steve McQueen for "Twelve Years a Slave."
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New Regency Productions and Paramount Pictures announced in October of last year plans to distribute the film, with Academy Award-winning screenwriter John Logan rewriting the script originally penned by Aronofsky and Ari Handel.
Aronofsky has been interested in adapting the biblical classic to the big screen since he was 13 years old, when he wrote a poem that talked about Noah's perception on the end of the world. He won a United Nations poetry competition at his Brooklyn school for the particular piece.
"Since I was a kid, I have been moved and inspired by the story of Noah and his family's journey," the 42-year-old previously shared. "The imaginations of countless generations have sparked to this epic story of faith. It's my hope that I can present a window into Noah's passion and perseverance for the silver screen."
Earlier, Slash Film spoke with the Oscar-winning director about the film who believed that any studio would want to make the "end of the world" movie. After all, it was the "second most famous ship after the Titanic," he said.
"I think it's really timely because it's about environmental apocalypse which is the biggest theme, for me, right now for what's going on on this planet. So I think it's got these big, big themes that connect with us. Noah was the first environmentalist. He's a really interesting character."
The "Pi" producer also reportedly hoped to get Liam Neeson to sign for another role in the $130 million budgeted movie, most likely to play the villain who constantly doubts whether Noah is doing God's will by building the ark.
"Noah" is set for a Fall 2013 release date, with shooting to begin this July in New York and Iceland, according to screenrant.com.
Calls made to New Regency Productions were not immediately returned when asked for more details and updates by The Christian Post.
A media representative at William Morris Endeavor, Russell Crowe's talent agency, also could not confirm his involvement as of yet.
