Paul Bettany has joined the cast of Fox Searchlight drama "The Secret Life of Bees" says The Hollywood Reporter.

Set in the 1960s South, "Bees" revolves around Lily Owens (Dakota Fanning) and her friend Rosaleen (Jennifer Hudson), who flee their small town to escape their harsh upbringing and uncover the mysteries of Lily's late mother.

Along the way, they are taken in by three sisters (Queen Latifah, Sophie Okonedo, Alicia Keys) who teach them the art of beekeeping.

Bettany will play widower T. Ray Owens, Lily's father. His wife will be seen in flashbacks played by Hilarie Burton.

Gina Prince-Bythewood adapted Sue Monk Kidd's novel and is directing the film, which begins shooting this week in North Carolina.