Russell Crowe has been cast as Noah in Director Darren Aronofsky‘s feature film of the same name.

The film is described as “a close adaptation of the Biblical story of Noah’s Ark. In a world ravaged by human sin, Noah is given a divine mission: to build an Ark to save creation from the coming flood.”

“I’d like to thank Paramount and Regency for backing my team’s work to breathe new life into the biblical epic,” Aronofsky said in a statement.

“I rejoice that Russell Crowe will be by my side on this adventure. It’s his immense talent that helps me to sleep at night. I look forward to being wowed by him every day.”

Deadline also reported that Liam Neeson was up for another lead role.

According to press notes, production will begin in July in New York and Iceland. Paramount plans to release “Noah” on March 28, 2014.