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.
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.
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.