Jason Patric (THE LOSERS) has been picked as the male lead in FX's pilot POWERS, based on Brian Michael Bendis and Michael Avon Oeming's graphic novel, reports Deadline.com.

Universal has hired Ian McShane (PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES) to play one of seven dwarves in SNOW WHITE AND HUNTSMAN, reports Heat Vision.

FX has chosen Lucy Punch (BAD TEACHER) as the female lead in its pilot POWERS, based on Brian Michael Bendis and Michael Avon Oeming's graphic novel, reports Deadline.com.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is extending invitations to join the organization to 178 artists and executives who have distinguished themselves by their contributions to theatrical motion pictures.

Peter Jackson posted on Facebook that Evangeline Lilly (TV's LOST) and Barry Humphries (Dame Edna) have joined the cast of THE HOBBIT.

Deadline.com reports that Peter Jackson has cast the roles of Bard and Smaug in THE HOBBIT.

Charlie Day (HORRIBLE BOSSES) is in negotiations to board Guillermo del Toro's PACIFIC RIM, reports Variety.

HitFix has a spoiler scoop on another BATMAN BEGINS actor returning for THE DARK KNIGHT RISES.

Russell Crowe is in talks to take the role of Superman's father Jor-El in MAN OF STEEL, reports Variety.

Matthew Fox, Ed Harris and Julia Levy-Boeken are circling Marc Forster's WORLD WAR Z, reports Deadline.com.