"Whale Rider" star Keisha Castle-Hughes has been cast as Mary in "Nativity," New Line Cinema's look at the life of the Virgin Mary before the birth of Christ says The Hollywood Reporter

Catherine Hardwicke is directing the movie, to be told with a strong female perspective, and will follow Mary and Joseph's life before the birth of Christ as their love, faith and beliefs are tested.

The script incorporates their departure from Nazareth and travel to Bethlehem and includes such biblical figures as King Herod, John the Baptist and the three kings from the Orient, among others.

Mike Rich wrote the script. Shooting begins May 1st in Morocco and Italy for a December 1st release.