TONI COLLETTE has been cast in “Mafia Mamma,” an action comedy about a suburban mom who unexpectedly inherits her grandfather’s mafia empire. Catherine Hardwicke, the filmmaker of “Twilight” and “Thirteen,” is directing the movie, which is expected to begin production in Italy in late spring 2022. Debbie Jhoon and J. Michael Feldman wrote the screenplay. The cast also includes Monica Bellucci and Rob Huebel. Collette is best known for her Academy Award-nominated turn in “The Sixth Sense,” as well as “Little Miss Sunshine,” “Hereditary” and “Knives Out.” In “Mafia Mamma,” she channels her comedic roots as Kristen, a mom who unwittingly finds herself as the new boss of the fiercest mafia family in Italy. “I couldn’t be more excited to make this film with Catherine and the team,” Collette said in a statement. “It is pure, fish out of water fun with a firm feminist backbone. I think we could all handle an uplifting, laugh out loud story like this right about now. Bring it on Italy!” The project reunites Hardwicke and Collette, who previously worked together on the emotional comedy “Miss You Already,” starring Drew Barrymore. “Toni is one of the most versatile actresses on the planet. She can be intensely emotional, sexy and hilarious,” Hardwicke said in a statement. “She’s going to dazzle as Kristin. And I personally relate to this woman who has to tap into her inner warrior and earn the respect of a bunch of men, especially after working in the film business. This story is empowering in the most fun way!”(SD-Agencies) | 