April 03, 2009

Glen Morgan adapting 'Anita Blake' books

Cable network IFC is adapting a popular vampire novel as its first theatrical-length movie production.

IFC is teaming with Lionsgate for a TV movie based on the "Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter" books. The telefilm could be the basis for more Blake projects if successful.

Laurell K. Hamilton's novels, at 16 books and counting, include elements familiar to fans of "True Blood" (vampires are part of regular society) and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" (tough young female fights supernatural forces). The project will be adapted by Glen Morgan ("The X-Files," "Final Destination"), who also is an executive producer with Courtney Solomon ("Dungeons & Dragons").

IFC is targeting the movie to its core base of men 18-34 and plans to air it next year.

"The popularity of the network in this demographic indicates that there is a clear demand for films that delve into provocative topics, and nothing is more classically provocative than vampire lore," said Jennifer Caserta, executive vp and GM of IFC. "Anita Blake fits perfectly with our successful original programming."

In the books, Blake is a vampire hunter with a lousy dating life who also works as a police consultant investigating supernatural crimes. She attempts to come to terms with her own abilities and navigate romantic and political relationships within the vampire community.

"Laurell has created a fascinating heroine in Anita Blake, and we quickly recognized the onscreen potential for this vivid character," said Kevin Beggs, Lionsgate president of TV programming and production. "We have an outstanding creative team and are excited to be moving forward with IFC, which will allow us to fully explore the complex world of Laurell's highly intriguing and erotically charged novels.

Source

No comments: