Twilight News: Lefevre Out, Howard In

Bryce Dallas Howard joins the “Twilight” zone. 

According to Variety, Bryce Dallas Howard has joined the cast of “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse.” She will take over the role of Victoria, who was played by Rachelle Lefevre in the first two films, “Twilight” and “New Moon.”

Summit Entertainment is citing “schedule conflicts” as the reason for Lefevre’s departure. “Eclipse” is supposed to start filming in August for a June 2010 release. Summit president of worldwide production and acquisitions Eric Feig:

“We are incredibly happy that Bryce has agreed to come into the franchise. Rachelle brought Victoria to great screen life and Bryce will bring a new dimension to the character. The franchise is lucky to have such a talented actress as Bryce coming in to fill the role.”

Ron Howard’s daughter (the Variety article didn’t mention that, presumably because they want to focus attention on her, not her father for a movie he’s not involved in, but I’ll mention it) may be talented, but she hasn’t been in many successful movies. Okay, she was in “Spider-Man 3,” but for all the money that made, it was almost universally disliked. She’s also been in M. Night Shyamalan misfires “Lady in the Water” and “The Village.” Then she was in this year’s summer bust, “Terminator Salvation.” Someone needs to be in a good movie–will this be it?

I dont’ know if “schedule conflicts” are the real reason for Lefevre leaving. If there’s been any gossip about her being unhappy with the producers or her part or her paycheck, it hasn’t been obvious. If it is scheduling, what’s she off to make? Whatever it is, it’s unlikely to be a more surefire hit than “Eclipse,” so she better have a stronger part.