Hilary Swank to topline ‘Betty Ann’

Oscar-winning actress Hilary Swank has signed on to star in Tony Goldwyn’s upcoming drama “Betty Ann Waters,” according to Variety.

Based on a true story, the film follows a single mother who fights her way through law school to represent and help free her imprisoned brother, who was wrongfully convicted of murder.

"There is a spirit and indomitability that Hilary brings that is a strong match for this character’s fierce commitment," Goldwyn told Variety.

Omega Entertainment is set to financially back and distribute the project, which will head into principal photography early next year.

Goldwyn, whose directing credits include “The Last Kiss,” is helming a script by Pamela Gray.

Swank was last seen “P.S. I Love You.” She will next star in Mira Nair’s “Amelia,” which chronicles the life of Ameila Earhart, the famous American pilot who became the first woman to fly across the Atlantic by herself.

Swank won two Academy Awards in the best actress in a leading role category for “Boys Don’t Cry” and “Million Dollar Baby.”