Jennifer Lawrence signs up for 'The Ends of the Earth'
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Whether or not she wins an Oscar on Sunday for her performance in David O. Russell's 'Silver Linings Playbook', Jennifer Lawrence has no intention of ending her partnership with the director any time soon.
The Academy Award-nominated actress has signed on to appear in 'The Ends of the Earth', one of the most talked about screenplays in Hollywood at the moment. Jessica Chastain had initially been reported as the frontrunner to land the female lead in the film, which tells the true story of powerful oil tycoon Ernest Marland, who has everything stripped from him after he is caught in an affair...with the young niece he took in and raised as a daughter.
The Weinstein Company acquired the rights to the project, scripted by Oscar-nominated Argo scribe Chris Terrio and produced by Todd Black, Steve Tisch and Jason Blumenthal of Escape Artists. Russell signed on to direct last night, with Harvey Weinstein expecting that the American epic will be akin to 'Django Unchained' in terms of size and budget.
Interestingly, the news of Lawrence's involvement comes hardly a month after the Hunger Games star joined the cast for Russell’s next project, an untitled Abscam film that features an all-star cast that includes Bradley Cooper, Christian Bale, Amy Adams and Jeremy Renner.
Todd Black and Steve Tisch, producers on 'The Ends of the Earth', released a statement about Lawrence's casting:
“Jennifer Lawrence is one of the most versatile actresses we have ever seen. Her performance in Silver Linings was transcendent and was truly the heart and soul of the film. Jennifer was basically asked to play 4 personalities – depressed, sexy, romantic and a wild dancer – and did them all brilliantly. After seeing that performance we knew we had our anchor for Ends of the Earth. Her dedication to the craft and all those who work with her is inspiring and if she is the future of our business we are certainly in good hands.”
Director David O. Russell concurred with the producers' statements, adding, “Jennifer possesses a self-deprecating humor that made all of the cast and crew feel at ease. She is that kind of person.” He went on to say, “She is the most dedicated person I know. She is devoted to her family and they have been the true inspiration for her character and integrity. Her acting is effortless and she always makes it look easy.”
The pedigree on this film is remarkable, and I'd be floored if it didn't become a major Oscar contender right out of the gate upon release. It's really one of the best screenplays I've ever had the opportunity to read, and it's all the more remarkable for having been a true story.
Via: Deadline
