September 12, 2008

News Briefs

  • The Sydney Theater Company’s forthcoming revival of “A Streetcar Named Desire,” directed by Liv Ullmann and starring Cate Blanchett as Tennessee Williams’ faded Southern rose Blanche DuBois, will travel to the U.S. following its home-base premiere late next year. (Variety)
  • Valerie Bertinelli is plotting a return to the sitcom biz, this time playing a single mother of two. Bertinelli will play a woman who struggles to care for two kids and a lumber business after her husband walks out on her. (Variety)
  • Hilary Swank and producing partner Molly Smith have acquired feature rights to Emily Giffin’s 2005 debut novel, "Something Borrowed," which they’ll develop through their 2S Films banner as a potential starring vehicle for Swank. Story centers on a Manhattan attorney who becomes involved with her best friend’s fiance following her 30th birthday. (Variety)
  • Showtime is hoping to extend the life of its "L Word" franchise with a spinoff starring Leisha Hailey. Ilene Chaiken, creator and exec producer of "The L Word," will write and produce the pilot. Shooting is skedded for December. (Variety)
  • Jamie Babbit will direct "Breaking the Girl." Script by Mark Distefano and Guinevere Turner is described as a sexy thriller set among conniving college students. (Variety)
  • The musical adaptation of 1996 menopausal revenge caper “The First Wives Club” will have its debut engagement July 15 through Aug. 23 at San Diego’s Old Globe prior to a planned Broadway run during the 2009-10 season. (Variety)
  • "Frozen River" writer-director Courtney Hunt has set her next project: the drama "Northline." Hunt will write and direct the film, based on Willy Vlautin's novel. The project centers on a woman who flees Las Vegas and a troubled life with her boyfriend for a new start in Reno, Nev. She also begins to seek comfort via imaginary conversations with Paul Newman. (HR)