ALIEN Prequel Looking to Cast Female Lead

Could Ridley Scott’s 3D Alien prequel finally be moving forward? Despite the kinks – supposed infighting over budget and ratings between Scott and 20th Century Fox – rumors are swirling that a number of actresses are in talks to join the film.

Carey Mulligan, fresh from her role in the Wall Street sequel and an Oscar nomination for An Education, and Abbie Cornish, previously appearing in the Scott directed film A Good Year, are on the short list of possibilities. However, it is Noomi Rapace -- star of the original Swedish version of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo -- who could be getting the most attention for the role.

The actress has also recently signed to co-star in the Sherlock Holmes sequel. She reportedly met with Scott and Fox before their falling out over budget and rating concerns.

No official word has been as meetings are still ongoing, but, in keeping with the tradition of Ellen Ripley, the lead will certainly be a strong female.