Scorsese Directed Pilot Picked Up By HBO

HBO has picked up "Boardwalk Empire," ordering a full series to be based on a pilot directed by Martin Scorsese.

The network has asked for 11 episodes of the drama, including the pilot that brings the total hours to 11.

The series is written by Terence Winter ("The Sopranos"). It follows Nucky Thompson (Steve Buscemi) who ruled Atlantic City during the Prohibition. He is described as being equal parts politician and gangster.

Michael Pitt, Kelly Macdonald, Michael Shannon and Dabney Coleman will also play roles in the series. The show is based on the book "Boardwalk Empire: The Birth, High Times, and Corruption of Atlantic City," by Nelson Johnson.

Production of the show is scheduled to begin in fall, hoping for a 2010 premiere. Scorsese, in addition to being the executive producer, is hoping to play a part in the creativity of the show.

It is possible that he may direct another episode, depending on his schedule.