Dolphin Films announced (13) that the actress has signed on to play Molly McGrath, the resilient single mother of protagonist Max McGrath in Dolphin Films’ upcoming Mattel adaptation.

Fledgling division Dolphin Films International and IM Global are handling international sales through their multi-year partnership and Open Road plans a wide US release.

Bello joins a cast that includes Andy Garcia as the mysterious scientist Dr Miles Edwards, Ben Winchell as Max McGrath and Ana Villafañe as Sofia Martinez. 

Stewart Hendler directs from a screenplay by Christopher Yost. Dolphin Films CEO Bill O’Dowd produces with Julia Pistor for Mattel’s Playground Productions.

“Maria Bello is a critically acclaimed actress who immediately grounds her role and elevates our film,” said O’Dowd. “She brings the perfect blend of compassion, strength and intrigue to the Molly McGrath character, who is absolutely essential in the Max Steel mythology.”

Bello will be seen later this year starring opposite Kevin Costner in McFarland. Her credits include Prisoners, A History Of Violence, Thank You For Smoking and The Cooler.