Natalie Portman in Early Talks for 'Annihilation' Sci-Fi Movie
Natalie Portman is reported to be in early negotiations for a lead role in an upcoming science fiction film called "Annihilation." It's to be helmed by Alex Garland, who previously directed another sci-fi film "Ex-Machina," the film will be made through Paramount Pictures.
According to a report in Variety, Portman is in early talks for the film, saying that Garland may have "found his next star" for his next sci-fi film. Garland aside from directing, will also write the film's screenplay.
The film will be about a team of four, including a biologist, an anthropologist, a psychologist and a surveyor, who sign up for a secret expedition in an area "where the laws of nature don't apply." Portman is reportedly being looked at to play the role of the biologist.
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Garland, the report said, is among the industry's most sought after directors, following the success of his last movie "Ex-Machina." Apparently, even the role of Portman's co-star is highly sought after, with the likes of Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton said to be in contention, but this won't be decided on until Portman's deal is done.
Portman is fresh from her directorial debut "A Tale of Love and Darkness" which she will promote in the Cannes Film Festival. She is also known for being choosy about the roles she takes on. She most recently starred in the western film "Jane Got A Gun."
"Annihilation" is said to be a film adaptation of a novel by Jeff VanderMeer. It is the first of a series of three novels called the Southern Reach Trilogy. The area where the expedition is taking place is cut off from the rest of civilization. Previous expeditions were said to have been problematic, with team members experiencing accidents and even psychological breakdowns.
Scott Rudin is producing the film. Paramount has yet to confirm the report however about Portman's negotiations.
