Project moves out of development hell with new blood.
THR has learned that a feature adaptation of Brian Michael Bendis and Marc Andreyko’s graphic novel ‘Torso’ is back in development with David Lowery (‘Ain’t Them Bodies Saints’) signing on to write and direct.
Originally published as a six-issue limited series by Image Comics, ‘Torso’ tells the true story of Elliot Ness’ time after his Al Capone days, when he moved to Cleveland and got embroiled in the hunt of the “Torso Murderer,” a serial killer who dismembered his victims and left taunting notes to police.
An adaptation of the crime thriller was first announced back in 2006 with David Fincher in the director’s chair. Fincher’s take, which was set to star Matt Damon, Rachel McAdams and Casey Affleck, fell apart at the seams due to budget concerns. The execs at the studios also felt that Fincher’s desire to shoot the film in black and white was a commercial risk.
With the rights back in the hands of Bendis and Andreyko, the project will start from scratch, with duo aiming for “a lower-budgeted, indie approach that will aim be to be a high-minded, period serial killer movie.”
The adaptation will have the financial backing of Circle of Confusion, the production company behind the excellent ‘The Walking Dead,’ along with Bendis and Andreyko. Lowery will take a producing credit via his production banner, along with Sailor Bear’s David and Toby Halbrooks.