Anderson is directing from his own original script, which chronicles a disaffected disciple's relationship with the founder of a new faith that closely mirrors Scientology.
Hoffman will play Lancaster Dodd, a charismatic intellectual known as The Master, while Phoenix would play Freddie Sutton, an alcholic drifter who becomes his right-hand man only to begin questioning his manipulative mentor.
Megan Ellison's Annapurna Pictures is looking to co-finance the period pic, which Universal was previously considering funding before having second thoughts about its mid-range budget.
