The journey to adapt Erik Larson’s bestselling non-fiction classic, The Devil in the White City, into a screen adaptation has been a rollercoaster ride filled with twists and turns. The project has been in development for several years, with various highs and lows along the way. From Leonardo DiCaprio acquiring the film rights in 2010 to Hulu announcing a big-budget series in 2019, the journey has been anything but smooth.
Despite the setbacks and uncertainties, producer Stacey Sher remains committed to bringing Larson’s book to life on screen. Sher, who has been involved with the project from the beginning, expressed her unwavering dedication when asked about the status of the adaptation. She revealed that the project is still in the works, indicating that big names like Rick Yorn, Leo DiCaprio, Jen Davisson, and Mr. Scorsese are all still on board.
The Devil in the White City follows Dr. HH Holmes, a cunning serial killer believed to have murdered anywhere from 27 to 200 people during the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 in Chicago. The book explores the stark contrast between the grandeur of the Exposition and the dark deeds of Holmes, who operated in the shadows of the event. The gripping storyline has captivated readers since its publication in 2003, sparking interest from Hollywood heavyweights like Tom Cruise and eventually landing in the hands of DiCaprio and Scorsese.
Over the years, the project has undergone numerous changes and adaptations, from potential feature films with A-list actors to a planned eight-episode series with Keanu Reeves in the lead role. However, despite these changes, the core team behind the adaptation has remained steadfast in their commitment to bringing Larson’s book to the screen. ABC Signature’s continued involvement signals a renewed sense of hope for the project’s future.
While the screen version of The Devil in the White City may not be imminent, Sher remains optimistic about its eventual realization. The complex history of the project, from its inception to its current state, highlights the challenges and perseverance required to adapt a beloved book for the screen. As the journey continues, it is clear that the dedicated team behind the adaptation is not giving up on bringing this captivating story to life for audiences worldwide.
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