Barbra Streisand to Direct Catherine the Great Biopic

Barbra Streisand Direct Catherine the Great — barbra streisand - H 2015
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Barbra Streisand is planning a return to the director’s chair for her first dramatic movie since 1996’s The Mirror Has Two Faces.

Streisand, one of the most prominent female directors, is tackling the story of one of history’s most powerful women, Catherine the Great.

She is attached to direct the biopic of the Russian empress, with the project, being produced by Gil Netter, not yet set up but in the process of being packaged.

Born Sophia Augusta Fredericka to German royalty, Catherine took power after her husband was assassinated and ruled from 1762 to 1796, in the process reinvigorating the Russian empire and growing it in size and strength.

The movie will focus on a young, sensual Catherine trapped in an abusive marriage with the heir to the Russian throne. But, when her inept husband proves incapable of ruling, she utilizes her intelligence, fortitude and passion to rise to power.

Kristina Lauren Anderson wrote the script, which topped the 2014 Black List for best unproduced screenplays.

Streisand has directed three movies. She made her debut with 1983’s Yentl, then helmed Prince of Tides (1991) and The Mirror Has Two Faces (1996). Her films have received a total of 14 Oscar nominations.

Netter was a producer on Life of Pi and Water for Elephants.