Today we can bring you the news that the star of James Franco‘s upcoming film Child Of God, Scott Haze, has joined the cast of Franco’s next directorial film, As I Lay Dying. The film will see Haze re-teaming with not only Franco but also True Blood star Jim Parrack and Tim Blake Nelson, who also star in Child Of God.
As I Lay Dying is an adaptation of William Faulkner’s novel of the same name which follows the story of the death of Addie Bundren and her family’s quest and motivations—noble or selfish—to honor her wish to be buried in the town of Jefferson. The film, which begins production this October in Mississippi, will also star Danny McBride, Ahna O’Riley and Logan Marshall Green, and will also see Franco taking acting duties alongside his role as writer/director.
Haze, a close friend of both Franco and Parrack, envisioned, built and founded The Sherry Theater in North Hollywood. He recently made a documentary about wrestler Lee Kemp titled Ghost & Goblins and has starred in numerous film and TV projects, as well as writing, directing and starring in critically acclaimed theatre productions.
On top of that, from what we’ve heard, Haze’s performance in Child Of God as the film’s protagonist Lester Ballard is quite amazing, and will definitely give the rising star some well deserved attention.
Unfortunately, Franco’s previous directional films haven’t gained as much traction as he might have hoped. However, As I Lay Dying and Child Of God, which are both long time passions of Franco’s and key novels from highly respected American authors, seem to be really grabbing people’s attention. Of all the projects Franco has put his name on in the past couple of years, these are the two that have us intrigued the most.
As I Lay Dying is expected to be released in 2013.
