Deadline is reporting that Academy Award-nominee Austin Butler (“Elvis“) will produce and star in the lead role of “City On Fire,” an adaptation of the Don Winslow novel of the same name. Sony Pictures will be producing the feature, and it is said this project will be a major focus for the studio.
The story follows protagonist Danny Ryan as he rises through the ranks, building his criminal empire in modern-day New England. To protect those he loves, he’ll have to stop police, mobsters, and anyone else who gets in his way.
No director or writers are currently attached to the project. The hope is that the film is the potential start of a franchise. While I am unfamiliar with these novels, there’s potential here for Austin Butler to give another stunning performance. A crime drama spanning decades could really provide him with something different to bring to the screen than what we previously saw with “Elvis.” His versatility will further be on display as he surrounds himself with all-star ensembles this year in “Dune: Part 2” and “The Bikeriders,” but this sounds like another noteworthy leading role for him to sink his teeth into.
Are you excited about an adaptation of “City On Fire?” Who do you think will be a good choice to direct the film? Are you familiar with the source material? Please let us know in the comments section below or over on our Twitter account.
