Three potential names have surfaced for the female lead in the upcoming Steven Spielberg-directed (Bridge of Spies) adaptation of Ernest Cline’s best-selling science fiction novel, Ready Player One according to The Wrap.
In addition to two unidentified actresses, Lola Kirke (Mistress America), Olivia Cooke (Me Earl and the Dying Girl) and Elle Fanning (Maleficent) are all rumored to be up for the role of Art3mis. The character is a love interest for Wade Watts, the main character who is also competing for millions of dollars from the creator of the massively popular Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) virtual world, “The Oasis.”
Regardless of who ends up playing the character, it remains to be seen if the role will be played by one or two actresses. For the vast majority of the book, Watts only sees the Art3mis’ virtual avatar and often wonders what she looks like in real life.
Ready Player One has been a highly awaited adaptation ever since Warner Bros. obtained the rights at the same time Cline signed the books publishing deal with Random House. Spielberg was brought on to direct the film in March and a December 15, 2017 release date was announced last month.
Once Art3mis has been cast, all attention will be on who will play the Wade Watts. The decision will likely fall under tight scrutiny from the book’s fans.