Mark Ruffalo to make directing debut

Here’s some interesting news: according to Variety, actor Mark Ruffalo is the latest to step behind the camera. The “Just Like Heaven” star will direct and star in “Sympathy for Delicious,” a spiritual drama backed by Corner Stone Entertainment.

Written by Chris Thornton, who also stars as the lead character, the story takes place in Los Angeles and focuses on a paralyzed disc jockey who mysteriously becomes a faith healer.

Ruffalo plays a Jesuit priest who helps him explore his new gift and accept its limitations. Also on board is James Franco, who jumps into the role of a rock singer.

Ruffalo was last seen in “Reservation Road.” He will next star in Fernando Meirelles’ thriller “Blindness,” which opens Sept. 26, 2008. Other credits include “Zodiac” and “13 Going on 30.”

As for Franco, he will return to the big screen alongside Seth Rogen in David Gordon Green’s “Pineapple Express,” which opens tomorrow. He will also appear in George C. Wolfe’s upcoming romantic drama “Nights in Rodanthe.”