Director Woody Allen is responsible for launching the careers of many an admired actress, and for using some of the most alluring women of the moment as protagonists for his films. Now he’s drawing from Almodovar’s crop of discoveries and has announced that his next film will star Penelope Cruz.

Allen, in his frequent trips to Barcelona playing with his New Orleans Jazz Band had hinted that he wanted to make his next film in that city. Now it’s official: the film will be in English and Spanish, set in Barcelona, and starring Penelope.

The announcement was made at the amFAR gala in an exclusive interview with — of all media — FOX News. Allen also said that the film will be a more serious story, along the lines of his recent movie Match Point.

Spain will be happy to receive this film. In my visits there I’ve found that for U.S.-hating Spaniards (there are lots) Woody Allen seems to be the perfect diplomat for our country. The only salvagable export we have. Woody Allen and CSI.

Reportedly Allen will move his family to Barcelona this summer to begin shooting. Meanwhile, Penelope is nominated for a Best Actress Oscar this year. VL will be reporting on the Latino side of the Oscars in depth so stay tuned.

Via / 20 Minutos