Russell Crowe as Noah in new Darren Aronofsky movie

by Dimitris Ioannou

The deals are done for the new Darren Aronofsky's project “Noah”, about an edgy Biblical re-telling of Noah's Ark. According to Deadline, in the New Regency/Paramount co-production will star Russell Crowe as Noah, although he wasn't Aronofsky's first choice. An official announcement should come sometime next week.

At first the director wanted Christian Bale for the role, but Bale was committed to doing the Terrence Malick-directed “Lawless” and “Knight Of Cups” so there was no time for a third movie. Michael Fassbender was also a name that was heard for the project, but apparently they didn't pan out.

“Noah” will follow Aronofsky's Oscar-nominated hit “Black Swan” and might be a good chance for Crowe to claim a second Academy Award after the one he got for the 2000 “Gladiator”. The movie joins a bevy of Biblical films including Steve Spielberg’s gritty “Moses” re-telling for Warner Bros.

“Since I was a kid, I have been moved and inspired by the story of Noah and his family’s journey. The imaginations of countless generations have sparked to this epic story of faith. It’s my hope that I can present a window into Noah’s passion and perseverance for the silver screen.” said Aronofsky.

The movie budget is estimated in about $130 million dollars.