The Amazing Spider-Man 2 star Andrew Garfield has signed on for the lead role in director Martin Scorsese's Silence. Ken Watanabe is co-starring in this adaptation of Shusaku Endo's novel.

Set in the 17th Century, the story follows Father Rodrigues (Andrew Garfield), a Portugese Jesuit priest who travels to Japan to confront his mentor, after rumors surfaced that he had abandoned the church. Ken Watanabe will portray Father Rodrigues' Japanese interpreter. Japanese actor Issei Ogata also stars in an unspecified role.

Martin Scorsese co-wrote the screenplay with Jay Cocks (Gangs of New York). Emmett/Furla Films is co-financing the project alongside Belgian producer Paul Breuls, with location scouting currently underway before production begins this summer.