Ever since her directorial talents brought the "The Twilight Saga" to life back in 2008, we've been keeping close tabs on Catherine Hardwicke—and not just because she's still holding onto those uncensored early audition tapes of Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, either. Catherine's flair for the visual and skillful handling of young actors has made her a coveted choice for studios everywhere, and her movies have an unmistakable appeal.
But while she might be best known around here for launching Kristen Stewart into the spotlight, looks like we'll next see Catherine in the company of a pre-established international superstar. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Noomi Rapace, who set the bar for portrayals of Lisbeth Salander in the Swedish version of "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo," has brought her on board for a pet project: a biopic of 1960s Swedish diva Anita Lindblom. (Groovy!)
With Catherine's eye and such great source material, we can't wait to see how she realizes mid-century Scandinavia on the big screen. And if you love the look and feel of her films, you're in luck, because there's a whole lot more where that came from. Here's a rundown of her rumored projects:
"The Maze Runner"
News broke late last year that Catherine was in negotiations to bring Jame Dashner's YA novel to the big screen—a dystopian thriller in which protagonist Thomas finds himself held prisoner in a place known as "the glade," with no memory of who he is. When we caught up with Catherine in March, she confirmed the adaptation was still on the table and revealed a few tidbits about her vision. "Instead of going back in the past or being in the literal present, we're going to the future," she said. "So that one is really creating a very stunning visual world. And intensity for the characters because of the mystery they're dealing with."
"Romeo & Juliet"
It's star-crossed lovers territory again for the "Twilight" director, who could reunite with her saga producers for an ABC television pilot of the Shakespearean tale set in Renaissance Verona, Italy (and not to be confused with the Hailee Steinfeld film adaptation).
"Hamlet"
One thing's clear: Miss Hardwicke is a Bard lover. This modern-day reimagining would re-team Catherine with her "Lords of Dogtown" star Emile Hirsch, who, way back in 2009, called the project "scary-cool." To be or not to be? We hope this one's to be!
"Maximum Ride"
Another potential blockbuster YA adaptation, James Patterson's supernatural thriller follows a group of six friends known as the Flock, who were all part of a genetic experiment that left them with the ability to fly—and scientists hot on their tales, er, wings.
"Freeheld"
This drama will star Ellen Page as an auto mechanic battling to secure her detective girlfriend's pension after she's diagnosed with a terminal disease. Just a touch heavier than "Twilight," I'd say.
Which of Catherine's upcoming projects are you most excited for? Tell us in the comments and on Twitter!
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