Kate Beckinsale, the renowned actress known for her roles in "Serendipity" and "Aviator," is diving headfirst into the thrilling world of shark survival cinema. In a recent development, she has joined the cast of the upcoming action film "White," directed by Jake West, known for his work on "Evil Dead." Beckinsale will play the role of Willa Harba, a struggling actress who finds herself in a dire predicament after a private jet crash in the Pacific Ocean. As the sole survivor, Willa is stranded on a wing of the wreckage, surrounded by nothing but the vast ocean. Her only means of communication is a satellite phone, which she uses to call for rescue. However, her demanding studio boss, played by Beckinsale herself, dismisses her pleas, leading her to seek help from marine biologist Sam Swatek, played by Katherine McNamara. The twist? Willa has crash-landed in the infamous White Shark Café, a notorious stretch of ocean where great whites gather to feast.
This intriguing premise has already sparked curiosity among film enthusiasts, and the casting of Beckinsale only adds to the excitement. Her involvement in the project is a testament to her versatility as an actress, showcasing her willingness to take on diverse and challenging roles. The film's script, penned by Dan Schaffer, the writer and illustrator of the cult comic book series "Dogwitch," promises a unique blend of suspense and adventure. With Beckinsale's executive production role, she will also have a significant influence on the creative direction of the film.
The production team behind "White" is equally impressive, with Yariv Lerner, known for his work on "Rambo: Last Blood" and "Hellboy," serving as a producer. The film's executive producers include Beckinsale, along with Arianne Fraser and Delphine Perrier from Highland Film Group, Patrick Wintersgill, Kevin Glynn, Pauric Duffy, and Hannah Leader. Highland Film Group is handling worldwide sales and co-financing the project, which is set to begin principal photography this summer in Bulgaria, England, and the U.S.
The upcoming release of "White" comes on the heels of Beckinsale's recent projects, including the action-packed "Rogue Planet," which she also produced. Her involvement in this shark-infested adventure further solidifies her status as a versatile and in-demand actress in the industry. As the film's release date approaches, fans can anticipate a thrilling addition to the shark survival genre, thanks in no small part to the star power and talent of Kate Beckinsale.