Bryce Dallas Howard joins cast of third 'Twilight' film

LOS ANGELES -- Bryce Dallas Howard is sinking her teeth into a role in the "Twilight" series.

Howard has been cast as the vampire Victoria in "Eclipse," the third film in the franchise.

She's taking over for Rachelle Lefevre, who played the part in the first two movies, the 2008 hit "Twilight" and the upcoming "New Moon." Summit Entertainment said Lefevre isn't returning because of scheduling conflicts.

The 28-year-old Howard is no stranger to blockbusters, having co-starred in "Spider-Man 3" and "Terminator Salvation." She also appeared in "The Village" and "Lady in the Water."

"Eclipse," based on the third book in Stephenie Meyer's "Twilight" saga, is scheduled to begin shooting in Vancouver in August. Part two, "New Moon," comes out Nov. 20.