Movie star Will Smith hasn’t starred in a film since his 2008 offerings Hancock and Seven Pounds but he seems set to make a comeback. Currently filming Men in Black III, he is now attached to the forthcoming project Joe.
The film is an updated version of the biblical story of Job, written by screenwriting duo Paul Tamasy and Eric Johnson (The Fighter) who have sold the script to Sony Pictures and Will Smith’s production company Overbrook Entertainment. The writers are said to be keen to sign David O. Russell as director (who received an Oscar nomination for The Fighter) and Smith is to star as the protagonist.
The Book of Job in the bible tells of Satan being granted God’s permission to test Job’s faith and loyalty. Job loses his family, wealth and health but remains devoted to God even though others insist his suffering is punishment for his sins. Job questions God and learns valuable lessons before his health, happiness and prosperity are restored.
Despite his three year break from starring in films, Will Smith has been keeping busy. He has produced films like The Karate Kid for his son Jaden and has been looking into opportunities for his daughter Willow, including the proposed remake of the musical Annie. This year we will see him return to our screens, reprising his popular role as Agent J in the third Men in Black film, which is due for release on May 23rd here in the UK.
Originally published March 1, 2011. Updated April 10, 2018.
