Robert Redford to Star in RI-Shot Film this March and April

Robert Redford will be in Rhode Island in March and April for the filming of "The Discovery," an upcoming sci-fi love story "set in a world where the existence of the afterlife is scientifically proven."

Redford plays the scientist who makes the earth-shattering discovery.

The Rhode Island Film Office confirmed that principal photography for the film is slated for March and April in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island native Erika Hampson is a co-producer for the film, her third to be produced in the Ocean State. Previously, she worked on "Infinitely Polar Bear" with Mark Ruffalo and Zoe Saldana and "Measure of a Man" starring Donald Sutherland.

"With our unique locations in close proximity and an organized talent pool of local artists and professional technicians, Rhode Island is the perfect place to make a successful movie," said Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo in a news release. "I am pleased that many small businesses will be impacted by this film. This is the type of positive energy that keeps our economy moving forward.”

Redford last came to Rhode Island for a film shooting in 1974 for "The Great Gatsby," a film that went on to collect Academy Awards for Best Costume Design and Best Music.

For Hampson, making another film in her home state is immensely rewarding, she said.

"It’s a privilege to be back in my home state, making a movie with such a talented cast, director and group of producers. I look forward to working with Steve Feinberg on our third movie together and am especially excited to reunite with all the amazingly talented local crew members. I love making movies in Rhode Island and am so happy to be back!”

Feinberg, executive director of the Rhode Island Film & TV Office, said that he and other members of the state film community look forward to helping director Charlie McDowell executive his vision for "The Discovery" and "supporting the dedicated crew of top-notch, professionals so they may maximize their potential for this extraordinary project."