Oscar nominated star Chiwetel Ejiofor is reportedly in talks to play the role of Peter the Apostle in the biblical drama 'Mary Magdalene', according to Deadline.
The British actor would star alongside Hollywood bigshots Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix. Mara has been roped in to play the lead Mary Magdalene while Phoenix is to portray Jesus Christ.
The film is being directed by Garth Davis known for directing crime drama mini-series 'Top of the Lake'. Universal Pictures International Productions is partnering with See Saw films of The King's Speech fame on the project.
As written in the New Testament, St. Peter was a fisherman who became the chief disciple of Jesus. He witnessed key events which only a few apostles did. He denied Jesus thrice, but realized he had been forgiven following the Resurrection. Peter was martyred by means of crucifixion in Rome under the rule of Emperor Nero Augustus Caesar.
The movie is slated for release in 2017, and aims to portray one of history's most complex figures. Ejiofor's role of the Apostle Peter has been previously played by Omar Sharif, Ken Stott, James Brolin and Max Von Sydow in cinematic history.
Fans of Ejiofor are also awaiting his debut in Marvel's adaptation of 'Doctor Strange' alongside stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Tilda Swinton later this year.