Barbra Streisand Set to Direct ‘Catherine the Great’

Biopic about Russian empress will be adapted from 2014 Blacklist-winning script by Kristina Lauren Anderson

and | December 3, 2015 @ 2:03 PM Last Updated: December 3, 2015 @ 3:34 PM
Barbra Streisand

Getty Images

Barbra Streisand is set to direct “Catherine the Great,” a biopic based on the iconic Russian empress, TheWrap has learned.

The film will be based on a script by Kristina Lauren Anderson that won the 2014 Blacklist for best unproduced screenplay. Gil Netter, who was also a producer on “Life of Pi” and “Water for Elephants,” is set to produce.

The movie will follow the story of the young Catherine who was trapped in an abusive marriage with the heir of the Russian throne.

Also Read: Barbra Streisand to Write Memoir for Viking, Due in 2017

Catherine was born Sophia Augusta Fredericka to German royalty and took power when her husband was assassinated, ruling from 1762 to 1796 while modernizing the Russian empire.

Streisand has directed three films, one of which was her 1983 film “Yentl,” which won a Golden Globe for Best Director of a Motion Picture in 1984, as well as a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Comedy/Musical. It also won the Oscar for Best Music, Original Song Score and Best Adaptation Score in 1984, and was nominated for four Oscars, including Best Actress in a Supporting Role for Amy Irving.

Also Read: Barbra Streisand Tops Chris Brown With History-Making Album Debut

She also directed 1991’s “Prince of Tides” and 1996’s “The Mirror Has Two Faces.” Her films have received a total of 14 Oscar nominations.

Streisand was last seen on the big-screen in “The Guilt Trip” starring Seth Rogen, which follows a young inventor who ends up getting stuck on a road trip with his mother.

Streisand is repped by CAA and Martin Erlichman Associates.

58 Eye-Popping Portraits From TheWrap's Toronto Film Festival Studio (Exclusive Photos)

1 of 59

Susan Sarandon, Common, Jeff Daniels, Sarah Silverman, Gael García Bernal and other stars stopped by TheWrap’s studio at London House

View In Gallery

Related Content