Conflicting reports have emerged over Esquire’s “Sexiest Woman Alive” Mila Kunis playing Anastasia Steele in the highly anticipated film adaptation of E. L. James’ ‘50 Shades of Grey.’ The 29-year-old actress, who was given the Esquire accolade earlier this month, grabbed the attention of ‘50 Shades’ fans after appearing topless on the magazine’s cover.
Kunis, of ‘That 70s Show’ and ‘Ted’ fame, is perfect for the innocently seductive lead role some fans proclaim. With her wide eyes and brunette hair, fans have claimed she is a dead ringer for Anastasia Steele. Others though say that the star is too old to play the 21-year-old character. Despite this, Gather Entertainment reported that the actress is not in talks with producers for the coveted role.
The young starlet joins heavy competition for the coveted lead role for the ‘50 Shades’ film adaptation. Other actresses being considered as Anastasia frontrunners include, Nina Dobrev, Emma Watson, Alexis Bledel and Amanda Seyfried. Lucy Hale, Emilia Clarke, Elizabeth Olsen and Shailene Woodley have also been mentioned as fan favorites.
The film, which is still in the pre-production phase, only recently confirmed that it had acquired a screenwriter in ‘Terra Nova’ creator Kelly Marcel. Mike De Luca and Dana Brunetti are the film’s producers.
Casting for the lead male role of Christian Grey has yet to be confirmed although fans have made sure to voice their support for some of their favorites. Actors Ian Somerhalder, Ryan Gosling, Matt Bomer and Michael Fassbender have all been included in the Christian Grey casting mix.
In the past, off-screen couple and on-screen ‘The Vampire Diaries’ costars, Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev have been picked as favorites to lead the roles. ‘White Collar’ actor Matt Bomer and ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ actress Emma Watson have also been named as top contenders.
Universal Pictures and Focus Features purchased the rights to ‘50 Shades of Grey’ earlier this year after the books skyrocketed to the top of bestsellers lists.