Chiwetel Ejiofor in talks to join Mary Magdalene film

Actor Chiwetel Ejiofor is in talks to play one of Jesus Christ's apostles in a new movie about Mary Magdalene.

Rooney Mara and Joaquin Phoenix have already signed on to play Mary and Jesus, respectively, in Garth Davis' film, described as an "authentic and humanistic portrait" of one of the most enigmatic and misunderstood spiritual figures in history, reported Deadline.

If Chiwetel, 39, joins the film, he will play fisherman Peter, who became one of Jesus' 12 apostles.

Peter reportedly denied Jesus three times and was believed to be crucified in Rome following Christ's death.

The untitled project is slated to begin shooting this year and will be released in 2017.