Bryce Dallas Howard joins 'Twilight' franchise

 

Bryce Dallas Howard, who has experience as the "Lady in the Water," is turning into a creature of the night.

The Associated Press reports that the red-haired actress will take over the role of the vampire Victoria in "Eclipse," the third film in the "Twilight" franchise, from Rachelle Lefevre. She appeared in the first film and will be seen in the second but cannot return due to "scheduling conflicts."

"Eclipse," based on the third Stephenie Meyer novel, will start shooting in Vancouver in August. "The Twilight Saga: New Moon" will hit theaters on Nov. 20 and, judging by Comic-Con reaction to footage of Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner with their shirts off, interest is still sky-high.

Howard is the daughter of filmmaker Ron Howard and is a terrific actress in her own right. Her credits include "Terminator Salvation," "Spider-Man 3" and "The Village." At right, a scene with Paul Giamatti from "Lady in the Water."