Michael Pena Wanted For "The Martian"

Michael Pena is in early talks to join "The Martian" says Variety. The End of Watch actor is reportedly interested in doing the film, but sources say that his schedule may prove an obstacle.

The project is based on a 2012 novel by author Andy Weir, which chronicles an astronaut (Matt Damon) who becomes stranded on Mars and tries to find a way back to Earth.

While it may sound similar to last year's Oscar blockbuster Gravity, the story is said to be much different, described as a cross between Apollo 13 and Cast Away.

Jessica Chastain is now in talks while Kristen Wiig is still hovering over the film.“Halt and Catch Fire” star Mackenzie Davis is in final negotiations to take a“small but crucial role”. "The Fantastic Four" star Kate Mara has been offered an unknown role

Drew Goddard was in talks to write and direct this pic, but Fox didn't want to wait for his schedule to clear, now that he is committed to directing Sony Pictures' Spidey film series villain spin off "The Sinister Six" and  Netflix's Daredevil TV Series he has left the pic. His script remains behind.

Ridley Scott is set to call action.

Scott, Simon Kinberg and Aditya Sood will produce the pic.

There's no word on yet when production would start. But a November 2015 release date being targeted.