Corsan has cast Adrien Brody in the title role of Lee Tamahori’s revenge tale Emperor. Corsan World Sales has introduced to international buyers in Cannes and Paradigm represents North America.

Brody will play Charles V, the Holy Roman Emperor who held sway over a European court of intrigue and debauchery in the 16th century. Jeffrey Hatcher wrote the screenplay from a story by Michael Thomas III.

Production is set to begin in August in the Czech Republic and Belgium.

Brody and Corsan previously worked together on Third Person, which Paul Haggis directed and Sony Pictures Classics will release in June.

“I have long admired Lee’s work and a true fan since he blew me away with Once Were Warriors,” said Brody. “The gritty and complex nature of his films and the characters within them haunt me to this day.

“When Lee approached me to play the role of Charles V – a man with great power and greater flaws whose demons took his empire to the brink – I felt compelled to accept the challenge. I am also pleased to have the opportunity to work with Paul and Corsan again after the great, creative experience we shared together on Third Person.”

“With Adrien and Lee Tamahori in place, we are attracting a very talented group of American and International actors, who we will announce shortly, for this sweeping film that will have world wide appeal,” said producer Paul Breuls of Corsan.