Charlize Theron Set For "Prometheus"

When Ridley Scott announced his intentions to film a prequel to "Alien," I have to admit I was a bit skeptical, just because of how epic the original was. But as time went on, the project morphed from a straight prequel to a related story that takes place in the same world as the original "Alien" film. It could turn into something pretty great all in itself.

"Lost" co-creator Damon Lindelof is writing the project, which is being described as an original sci-fi movie titled "Prometheus."

Noomi Rapace ("The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo," "Sherlock Holmes 2") is already attached to star and now it seems as if the project has added another big name. According to Variety, Charlize Theron is in final talks to co-star in Ridley Scott's upcoming sci-fi epic "Prometheus" for 20th Century Fox.

Theron and Noomi Rapace will be the leading protagonists in the film in the roles of Elizabeth Shaw and Vickers. While the story will not be a straight "Alien" prequel, there is still some connection to that film and it's "world."

Actor Michael Fassbender, who plays an android in the film, spoke about the film with MTV and explained a little more about its connection with "Alien."

"There's a definite connecting vein. You realize you're part of something else, but it's definitely in keeping with the old ones. When I read it, I was like, 'Well, okay, another Alien. Where do you go with this idea?' And then I sort of read the script, and it's new, yet it's in keeping with the old traditions as well. But there's a whole new revelation within this film. The first 'Alien' [movies], they were thrillers. Something's going on. It's creeping, it's sinister. Things are happening, it's building, [and there are] different sorts of intrigues and politics going on between the different relationships on board. There's action in (this new film), but the intelligence is what struck me when I read it. It's more sort of like the original ones. There are things happening and building, and the intelligence of the first two-thirds of the film gets you ready for the action."

As a science fiction project by itself the film sounds great and adding the connection to "Alien" makes things even more exciting for this film. Fassbender has been one of the "go-to" guys in Hollywood after his amazing performance in "Inglourious Basterds." He will also star as Magneto in the upcoming summer blockbuster "X-Men: First Class."

Adding Theron is also a pretty big deal as well. This project falls on the shoulders of its two female leads, and if they weren't two strong-willed and talented ones, the film could falter. Theron is an Academy Award winner and Rapace showed off her talent in the Swedish versions of "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" films.

Shooting should begin later this year on the film with a possible release for 2012.