MGM and Relativity Media came out the victors in an intense battle to acquire the film rights to Robert Ludlum's The Matarese Circle. Oscar-winner Denzel Washington is attached to star in the film and 3:10 to Yuma's screenwriters, Michael Brandt and Derek Haas, have hired on to adapt the screenplay.
In a statement issued by MGM and Relativity, MGM Chairperson Mary Parent said, "Like many of Ludlum's other works, The Matarese Circle has all of the elements of a truly great film and possible franchise. Add Denzel Washington to this and we couldn't have hoped for a better announcement to kick off the ramping up of the studio's motion picture operation."
"We have had a strong relationship with Mary and MGM and both companies were equally interested in acquiring this film," stated Relativity's Ryan Kavanaugh. "We are thrilled to be able to partner with MGM on this project."
There's no word yet on who will direct the film. The Matarese Circle takes place during the Cold War and finds rival spies - one from the CIA and one from the KGB - working together to take down international killers known as the Matarese.
SOURCE: MGM
