Martin Scorcese is planning to finally complete the long-in-development project Silence once he wraps up Shutter Island.

The drama is based on Shusaku Endo’s novel, taking place in the 17th century. It follows two Jesuit priests who face violence and persecution when they travel to Japan to locate their mentor and to spread the gospel of Christianity.

Daniel Day-Lewis and Benicio del Toro are in negotiations to star in the project. Gael Garcia Bernal is also said to be circling the film.

Production will begin later this year – quite surprisingly – in New Zealand.