Denis Villeneuve’s ‘Cleopatra‘ film is currently in the works, with the script being written by ‘1917’ and ‘Last Night in Soho’ writer Krysty Wilson-Cairns, as confirmed by Time.
The film, based on Stacey Schiff’s best-selling book, is targeting a late 2024 start for filming. The story highlights Cleopatra’s strategic journey to power through her adept seduction skills, the movie is set to be R-rated.
Insider Daniel Richtman reveals that Zendaya is set to star as the titular character, while Timothée Chalamet has been offered the role of Octavius. Additionally, there are efforts to cast Daniel Craig in the role of Caesar.
In 2020, right before filming ‘Dune,’ Villeneuve confirmed to TVA that ‘Cleopatra’ was in the works.
Villeneuve said, “There is of course the second part of Dune, which I hope I have the chance to shoot eventually. But I also have a historical film project on the life of Cleopatra.” He added, “This project is underway and it excites me a lot. I hope I can bring it to the screen before or after filming the second part of Dune.”
Warner Bros. Pictures is scheduled to release Villeneuve’s upcoming ‘Dune: Part Two‘ in theaters on March 1, 2024.