Allen, Irons to star in O'Keeffe biopic

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 6 (UPI) -- Bob Balaban has signed on to direct the U.S. television movie "Georgia O'Keeffe," starring Joan Allen and Jeremy Irons, Lifetime said Thursday.

Balaban, an actor-writer who helped pen and produce "Gosford Park," will direct the TV movie about the famous artist, which was written by Pulitzer Prize winner Michael Cristofer.

"Lifetime is committed to being a destination for top creative talent, providing an environment that allows filmmakers to deliver their projects to a broad audience," Tanya Lopez, Lifetime Networks senior vice president of original movies, said in a statement. "In working with such brilliant and respected actors as Joan Allen and Jeremy Irons, Lifetime reiterates its commitment to the production of first-rate motion picture projects."

"Georgia O'Keeffe is the iconic role model for unique, talented, brilliant and liberated women of all ages," said Helen Verno, executive vice president of movies and miniseries for Sony Pictures Television. "The project is sure to speak to viewers who are inspired by her love affair with Alfred Steigliz and the extraordinary work they created during the many years of their relationship."

Allen's film credits include "Nixon," "The Crucible," "The Contender," "The Ice Storm," "Pleasantville," "The Notebook," "The Upside of Anger" and the blockbuster "Bourne" trilogy.

Irons has starred in "The French Lieutenant's Woman," "Reversal of Fortune," "Appaloosa," "Eragon," "Kingdom of Heaven," "The Merchant of Venice" and "Being Julia."