If you’re going to enter a new field, it’s best to bring your partner along for some security. Coming, somewhat appropriately, right after Penélope Cruz enlisted Javier Bardem in her own task, ShowBiz411 tell us Paul Bettany is following suit with Shelter, a (seemingly) small-time drama that will utilize the talents of his own spouse, Jennifer Connelly. First word is scant, except to say that the director’s own script centers on the romantic bond which forms between a pair of homeless people — the aforementioned actress very likely one-half of this pairing, the also-cast Anthony Mackie a potential onscreen partner.
Stephen Graham (Boardwalk Empire, Public Enemies) will also be seen in the production, which is seeking “a variety of other players” — I’d swear this is nothing more than a fancy way of saying “supporting actors who can commit” — for a shooting start next month, a period the outlet wisely point out is sure to give Shelter a nice, seasonal atmosphere and glow. (They suspect, too, that it could premiere at Tribeca in eight months’ time, though that’s not something we could guess, ourselves.) Playing it simple, narrative-wise, should be good for Paul Bettany, filmmaker, as will his fine trio of performers — so let’s hope that Paul Bettany, screenwriter, has the basics of this tale locked down before composing a shot.
What do you think of this actor’s plunge into the new world of filmmaking? Does the cast impress?