It’s been a while since we’ve heard much about development on M Night Shyamalan’s latest project, the Will Smith-starring sci-fi 1000 A.E. (it’s apparently being given a numeral title now). But fresh word comes from the Heat Vision blog, which reports that Zoe Kravitz and Sophie Okonedo are both now in early talks to join the film.

More details have also slowly been leaking out about the plot, which is set in a future where Earth has become an inhospitable nightmare and mankind has moved on. The focus is on Will Smith as a heroic type and his son (played by real-life sprog Jaden), who is considered a bit of a failure. But when the pair crash lands on the ruined planet, Will’s character in badly injured and it’s up to Jaden to prove his mettle and help his father.

Kravitz, who last appeared in X-Men: First Class is circling the role of Smith’s other child. Hotel Rwanda’s Okonedo, who has been spending more time on the small screen than the big one recently, would play Smith’s wife. Neither actress has a deal in place yet.

Shyamalan has worked on the script with Book Of Eli writer Gary Whitta and Syriana’s Stephen Gaghan, aiming to start shooting early next year. Sony is currently planning to get the film in cinemas by July 2013.