Can You See Russell Crowe As Aronofsky’s NOAH? Liam Neeson Might Have A Role In The Film Too?

When I picture NOAH in my head, I’d picture someone like either Christopher Plummer, or Max Von Sydow, or Martin Landau with long white beard. Russell Crowe would probably the last person that comes to mind, but Crowe is exactly what Deadline said director Darren Aronofsky is currently gunning for.
The Oscar nominated director of Black Swan wants Crowe (who you’ll see next year as JOR-EL in MAN OF STEEL) as NOAH and Aronofsky is said to also want Liam Neeson for another role.
I wonder if the ark and some of the animals would be CG like how it was done for Evan Almighty?
One thing certain is that NOAH‘s budget is $130 Million, so we’re going to see some heavy VFX.
Crowe’s and Neeson’s involvements with this project are not yet confirmed but we’ll keep an eye out on this one.
Previous rumor said that production might start this summer for a 2013 release and that there would be a villain in the story, could Aronofsky want Neeson to play that villain?..

This #130 Million budget project is financed by Paramount and New Regency..

Scripted by Aronofsky and Ari Handel, rewritten by John Logan (Gladiator), Aronofsky previously said that this will be his ‘big event film’ and that he doesn’t necessarily feel it’s a religious story..

“I think it’s a great fable that’s part of so many different religions and spiritual practices. I just think it’s a great story that’s never been on film.”

The following is Aronofsky’s comment..

“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,”

Here’s how Aronofsky previously described this character and he’s not planning to be shy in the storytelling approach..

[He was the] first environmentalist. [The] first person to plant vineyards, drink wine and get drunk. I was stunned going back and realizing how dirty some of those stories are. They’re not PG in any way. They’re all about sleeping with your brother’s sister who gives you a child who you don’t know. That kind of stuff got censored out of our religious upbringing.