Rumor: "Cleopatra" will be Director Denis Villeneuve's Next Project
Two of his "Dune" stars are to take on leading roles
One of the most famous queens in world history is to receive another cinematic tribute: according to Hollywood insiders, "Dune" director Denis Villeneuve is to be responsible for "Cleopatra" and reportedly already has a cast for the project in mind.
The story of the Queen of Egypt still seems to be very popular in Hollywood and several films on the subject are currently in development. According to insider Daniel Richtman, Villeneuve wants to start filming his version as early as next year. Superstar Zendaya is set to take on the role of Cleopatra. According to initial rumors, "Dune" star Timothée Chalamet has been offered the role of Gaius Octavius, who was to become the first Roman emperor as Augustus. But that's not all: "James Bond" actor Daniel Craig is also rumored to be involved, in the role of Gaius Julius Caesar, Cleopatra's lover.
The epic will tell the story of how Cleopatra ensnares the young general Octavius after Caesar's death in order to further expand her influence against the world power Rome. However, when he gains the upper hand in Rome, Cleopatra is doomed.
The screenplay for the film has already been written by author David Scarpa, who claims to have treated the material like a political thriller: That means sex, blood, assassinations and a whole lot of swearing.