'Gods of Egypt' filmmakers apologize for casting choices

Director Alex Proyas and Lionsgate, the studio behind "Gods of Egypt" -- a period-piece, fantasy adventure based in Egypt -- have responded to the criticism regarding the upcoming movie which stars all-white actors.

The film stars Gerard Butler, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Brenton Thwaites, Rufus Sewell, and Courtney Eaton.

Both the studio and the director admit failure to live up to their standard of diversity.

"The process of casting a movie has many complicated variables, but it is clear that our casting choices should have been more diverse. I sincerely apologize to those who are offended by the decisions we made," Poyas told US business magazine Forbes.

Lionsgate issued a statement that read: "We recognize that it is our responsibility to help ensure that casting decisions reflect the diversity and culture of the time periods portrayed. In this instance we failed to live up to our own standards of sensitivity and diversity, for which we sincerely apologize.

"Lionsgate is deeply committed to making films that reflect the diversity of our audiences. We have, can and will continue to do better."

The film will hit the US screens on February 26 next year.