Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow in the superhero packed “Marvel’s The Avengers.” (Provided by Marvel)
Looks like Black Widow has a new gig.
Scarlett Johansson, the actress who plays Black Widow in Marvel’s cinematic universe, has signed on to star in DreamWorks’ rendition of the popular Japanese anime “Ghost in the Shell,”
Johansson will presumably play the role of Major Motoko Kusanagi, the leader of Public Security Section 9, a counter-terrorism group comprised of former soldiers and law enforcement officers.
Set in a futuristic world in which cyber technology is used to alter and enhance the human body, “Ghost in the Shell” raises questions about the nature of consciousness and humanity.
Actress Scarlett Johansson arrives at the 83rd Annual Academy Awards held at the Kodak Theatre on February 27, 2011 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Johansson had reservations after about the role but has since overcome them, Variety reported. Rupert Sanders has agreed to direct and Avi Arad and Steven Paul will produce the film. The script is by Bill Wheeler, with Mark Sourian as executive producer.
While the film is still in pre-production, that Johansson’s commitment to the film should increase the movie’s chances of getting a green light, Variety said.
Fans of the anime may want to rewatch the “Ghost in the Shell” films and series for a refresher course if and when DreamWorks’ movie arrives. Also check out our interview with another actress who played .
