NEW YORK (CBS) Actress Natalie Portman has been asked to replace Angelina Jolie in a new science-fiction film, "Gravity."

Natalie Portman on Sept. 1, 2010, in Venice, Italy. (Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)

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PICTURES: Venice Film Festival 2010
PICTURES: Portman Makes The Rounds

Portman, who presented her latest film "Black Swan" at the Venice Film Festival, was reportedly offered Jolie's role after the actress recently pulled out of the Warner Bros. project to focus on other commitments, according to published reports.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, a strong female lead was needed for "Gravity." Portman was offered the role for the film without even needing a screen test, in wake of the positive reception of her new film "Black Swan." The film's director, Alfonso Cuaron, has been looking for a Jolie replacement since her sudden exit and needed an actress captivating enough to helm the $80 million production.

The next step is for Portman to read the script and make a decision. The film is an "3D survival story," in which the male and female leads play astronauts who are stranded after a disaster leaves their space station inoperable.

Other actresses considered for the film project included "Gossip Girl" star Blake Lively and actress Scarlett Johansson.

"Gravity" is slated for production at the end of January 2011.