Universal Nabs Exclusive Rights to Ludlum

11/21/2008
Kristin Hunt
The studio, among other projects, is working on a fourth Bourne film

Universal Pictures has struck a deal with the estate of author Robert Ludlum that gives the studio exclusive rights to the high-grossing Jason Bourne character, as well as first look at other Ludlum novels, Variety reports.

With the deal now in place, star Matt Damon and director Paul Greengrass have been signed for a fourth film. George Nolfi will write the script, while Frank Marshall is set to produce. The movie is expected to released in the summer of 2010.

"Universal has done such an excellent job with the first three films that they deserve the opportunity to keep Jason Bourne at the studio forever," Ludlum Entertainment chairman/CEO Jeffrey Weiner told Variety.

Universal is developing another Ludlum book called "The Sigma Protocol" along with Strike Entertainment's Marc Abraham and Eric Newman.

However, Universal failed to acquire "The Matarese Circle" last April, losing out to MGM and Relativity. David Cronenberg will direct this film, which is expected to begin production next year and stars Denzel Washington.

0
No votes yet
Your rating: None
  • |