Keisha Castle-Hughes to play Virgin Mary

Keisha Castle-Hughes

LOS ANGELES - Keisha Castle-Hughes, the Oscar-nominated star of 'Whale Rider', has been cast as Mary in Hollywood film 'Nativity', which looks at the life of the Virgin Mary before the birth of Christ.

Catherine Hardwicke ('thirteen') is directing the New Line Cinema project.

The story, to be told with a strong female perspective, will follow Mary and Joseph's life before the birth of Christ as their love, faith and beliefs are tested. The script incorporates their departure from Nazareth and travel to Bethlehem and includes such biblical figures as King Herod, John the Baptist and the three kings from the Orient, among others.

Shooting will begin on May 1 in Morocco and Italy. The studio is eyeing a December 1 release.

Castle-Hughes, 15, became the youngest actress nominated for a best actress Academy Award when she was recognized for her breakthrough role in 2002's "Whale Rider." She also had a brief and silent turn in "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith" as Queen of Naboo.

- REUTERS/Hollywood Reporter