David O. Russell to Direct Jennifer Lawrence in 'The Ends of the Earth' (Exclusive)

Oscar nominee David O. Russell has committed to reunite with Jennifer Lawrence on the drama The Ends of the Earth, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.

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The Silver Linings Playbook filmmaker has come aboard to direct the Weinstein Co. drama, a fact-based love story about a powerful oil tycoon who has everything stripped from him after he is caught in an affair. Russell could tackle the project after his next movie, an untitled drama he will film in New York and Boston beginning in March with Bradley Cooper, Christian Bale and Amy Adams. Lawrence is slated to have a cameo in that movie.

Russell clearly enjoys staffing his movies with familiar faces.

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“Jennifer possesses a self-deprecating humor that made all of the cast and crew feel at ease," Russell tells THR in a statement. "She is that kind of person.”

He continues: "She is the most dedicated person I know. She is devoted to her family, and they have been the true inspiration for her character and integrity. Her acting is effortless, and she always makes it look easy.”

The film is being produced by Todd Black, Steve Tisch and Jason Blumenthal of Escape Artists and was written by Argo screenwriter Chris Terrio.

“Jennifer Lawrence is one of the most versatile actresses we have ever seen," Black and Tisch tell THR in a joint statement. "Her performance in Silver Linings was transcendent and was truly the heart and soul of the film. Jennifer was basically asked to play four personalities -- depressed, sexy, romantic and a wild dancer -- and did them all brilliantly. After seeing that performance, we knew we had our anchor for Ends of the Earth. Her dedication to the craft and all those who work with her is inspiring -- and if she is the future of our business, we are certainly in good hands."

Russell and Lawrence are both repped by CAA.

Email: Matthew.Belloni@thr.com

Twitter: @THRMattBelloni