Jennifer Lopez Joins Chilean Miner Film, 'The 33'

Despite the unseemly nature of a Chilean miner drama being developed before they were ever rescued, The 33 is definitely happening and has even gathered some impressive talent. Patricia Riggen (Under the Same Moon) is directing, with Antonio Banderas, Martin Sheen, and Rodrigo Santoro already on board. The latest addition is the biggest star yet, as THR reports Jennifer Lopez has signed on.

The story penned by Mikko Alanne and Jose Rivera (On the Road) will chronicle the 69-day ordeal as the 33 miners were trapped in the San Jose mine with little hope of rescue. The role of charismatic "Super Mario" Supelveda is being played by Banderas, with Santoro as another miner, and Sheen as a miner's father. It's unclear what part Lopez will take on but she could easily be a miner's wife, or perhaps a news reporter on the scene. This will have to be a pretty large ensemble so there likely won't be a specific lead actor. Banderas will probably come the closest.

Filming on The 33 begins this fall.