Whatever one thinks about the plethora of faith-based movies out there, they have to be commended for making the most out of...well, let's just say "marginal" talent and smallish budgets. In fact, the one time Hollywood tried to mount a blockbuster studio-sized faith-based film it was Darren Aronofsky's Noah and the results were mediocre as the target audience denounced it. Will the same hold true for Mary Magdalene, which already boasts Rooney Mara, Joaquin Phoenix, and now Chiwetel Ejiofor in the lead roles?
Deadline reports of Ejiofor's joining the cast, taking on the role of Peter, one of Jesus' disciples who denied knowledge of him three times after his arrest, fulfilling a prophecy Jesus made at The Last Supper. Mara will play Mary Magdalene, whose perspective will drive the story, while Phoenix is set to play Jesus, which should be worth the price of admission alone.
Garth Davis (Lion) is on board to direct with plans to shoot this summer, and if all goes well we could see the film next year.
