May 15, 2009, 11:30 GMT
Gemma Arterton is to star in 'Wuthering Heights'.
03/29/2009 - Gemma Arterton - Robert Bernstein, whose production company Ecosse Film is developing the movie, has defended the decision to cast Gemma, 23, and 21-year-old Ed in the latest adaptation of Emily Bronte's classic 1847 novel. © Solarpix / PR Photos
The British beauty has landed the lead role of Catherine 'Cathy' Earnshaw after a string of Hollywood actresses pulled out.
'Gossip Girl' actor Ed Westwick will portray the brooding Heathcliff, who becomes embroiled in a complicated romantic relationship with Cathy.
Robert Bernstein, whose production company Ecosse Film is developing the movie, has defended the decision to cast Gemma, 23, and 21-year-old Ed in the latest adaptation of Emily Bronte's classic 1847 novel.
Bernstein said: "We have cast as it was written. Heathcliff is a teen, and the story takes him into his early 20s. Cathy is just as young. It is radical because usually actors playing these characters are much older.
"We are very proud to have British actors on board."
'Quantum of Solace' star Gemma is not the first actress to have been linked to the role of Cathy.
'Wuthering Heights' bosses were furious after Natalie Portman pulled out of the film, saying she had "seduced" them into giving her the role after actively pursuing the part.
Sienna Miller and Abbie Cornish were also rumoured to be interested in the movie.
'Hunger' actor Michael Fassbender was originally set to play Heathcliff, with bosses saying he had the perfect "raw quality" for the character.
Shooting is due to begin in autumn.
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