Actors who auditioned for the movie had to read for both Judah Ben-Hur and his close friend-turned-rival Messala. Huston was leaning towards the latter but director Timur Bekmambetov thought he had the "sympathetic manner and grit to play the title role," Deadline reported.
The film already has roped in Morgan Freeman to play the role of Ben-Hur's mentor Ildarin.
'Thor' star Tom Hiddleston's name was once attached to the role but apparently that did not work out. It is yet known which actor has landed the role of Messala.
The story follows a falsely accused nobleman who survives years of slavery to take vengeance on his best friend who betrayed him. Both must come to choose between retribution or forgiveness.
Bekmambetov will start filming in Europe next year for a February 26, 2016 release. Keith Clarke wrote the script which was later rewritten by John Ridley of '12 Years a Slave'.