Shia LaBeouf has been cast as an Italian saint in a new film directed by Abel Ferrara. His sexual battery lawsuit filed by FKA twigs continues.
Last December, twigs sued her ex-boyfriend for alleged sexual battery, citing a pattern of “relentless abuse” that included “assault and infliction of emotional distress”.
On a statement, Ferrara revealed that the film is set in Italy post-World War I, where Saint Padre Pio has become a saint.
Ferrara also said,
“We’re doing a film about Padre Pio, he’s a monk from Puglia. It’s set in Italy right after World War I. He’s now a saint, he had stigmata.”
“He was also in the middle of a very heavy political period in world history,” Ferrara continued. “He was very young before he became a saint, so Shia LaBeouf is going to play the monk.”
Willem Dafoe has also reportedly got the call to join the film’s cast, not surprising as the actor is a regular Ferrara collaborator.
Back in July this year, it was reported that “engaged in productive settlement negotiations”.
Twigs’ lawyer stated, “The parties have been engaged in productive settlement negotiations and are in the process of arranging for an early mediation.”
Following the allegations, Sia spoke out in protection of Twigs and claiming that LaBeouf is a “pathological liar”.
She said, “I too have been hurt emotionally by Shia, a pathological liar, who conned me into an adulterous relationship claiming to be single.”
“I believe he’s very sick and has compassion for him AND his victims. Just know, if you love yourself- stay safe, stay away.”
The director added that he plans to shoot on location in Puglia this October.
