The creative minds behind the Oscar-nominated The Social Network will join forces to produce a film version of the steamy best-selling trilogy Fifty Shades of Grey.
Universal Pictures and Focus Features said in a joint statement on Monday that producers Michael De Luca and Dana Brunetti will re-team to adapt EL James’s erotic novels.
The books, often referred to as ‘mommy porn’ for their sexual content and large female following, tell the story of an unworldly college student – and initial virgin – Anastasia Steele engaging in an unusual romantic relationship with a wealthy 27-year-old businessman, Christian Grey.
Besides producing the highly acclaimed 2010 Facebook flick, which was also based on a book, De Luca had his hand in last year’s ‘Moneyball’ starring Brad Pitt, which was nominated for an Academy Award, and both partners are currently working on the upcoming Paul Greengrass-Tom Hanks drama ‘Captain Phillips.’
‘Michael De Luca is a dream producer, whose combination of vision, taste and fearlessness is the perfect match for Fifty Shades of Grey,’ said Focus’ CEO James Schamus.
Universal and Focus bought the rights to the racy trilogy for $5million in March following a high-profile Hollywood bidding war, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
So far, the books have sold 31 million e-book and print copies worldwide, smashing Harry Potter’s record for the fastest-selling paperback of all-time.
‘At its core, Fifty Shades of Grey is a complex love story, requiring a delicate and sophisticated hand to bring it to the big screen,’ said Universal co-chairman Donna Langley in a statement.
‘Mike and Dana’s credits more than exemplify what we need in creative partners, and we’re glad to have them as part of our team.’
The author of the scandalous trilogy said that she is thrilled that De Luca has joined ‘Team Fifty.’
‘He brings a passion for and in-depth understanding of the characters and story and a wealth of experience in making quality films,’ James stated.
Meanwhile, James’ husband, Niall Leonard, also received some good news on Monday.
Random House Inc imprint Delacorte Press announced that it will release Leonard’s young adult thriller Crusher in the U.S. on September 11.
Last month, Leonard reached an agreement with Random House in the UK to publish his book in England on the same day.
Leonard is a TV screenwriter whose credits include Wire in the Blood. His novel is the first of three planned books. It follows a teen dropout seeking his father’s killer.
Source: DailyMail
James Deen should play Christian Grey! 🙂