20th Century has secured the rights to adapt Duane Swierczynski’s New York Times bestselling novel, ‘California Bear’, into a feature film. The adaptation will be penned by Swierczynski in collaboration with Gary Lennon, with Ryan Coogler’s Proximity Media producing the film, according to Deadline.
‘California Bear’ is a gripping thriller that follows four unlikely vigilantes who decide to take justice into their own hands, leading them into a confrontation with the villain behind one of California’s most notorious cold cases. This adaptation marks the first collaboration between 20th Century and Proximity Media.
Key figures at 20th Century involved in this project include Rashonda Joplin, Director of Production, and Catherine Hughes, Creative Executive. The acquisition of the book was significantly influenced by Clare Reeth, 20th Century’s Head of Literary Affairs. From Proximity Media, Ryan Coogler, Zinzi Coogler, and Sev Ohanian will serve as producers, with Rebecca Cho and Hannah Levy overseeing the project as executive producers.
Gary Lennon, who will co-write the screenplay with Swierczynski, recently extended his development deal with Lionsgate Television and has been a significant force in television with credits including ‘Power Book IV: Force’ and ‘Orange Is the New Black’. Lennon’s representation includes CAA, M88, and attorney Erik Hyman.
Duane Swierczynski, known for his bestselling and Edgar-nominated novels such as ‘Expiration Date’ and ‘Canary’, has an extensive portfolio that includes graphic novels and over 250 comic books for major franchises like ‘Deadpool’ and ‘Star Wars: Rogue One’. He is represented by Story Driven and McKuin, Frankel Whitehead.
Proximity Media, known for critically acclaimed and commercially successful films like ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’ and ‘Creed III’, continues to build its impressive slate with this new project. They are also working on an untitled event film for Warner Bros. starring Michael B. Jordan, set for a March 2025 IMAX release, and are in post-production on Marvel’s ‘Ironheart’ miniseries.
With ‘California Bear’, 20th Century and Proximity Media are poised to deliver another thrilling cinematic experience, leveraging the creative prowess of Swierczynski, Lennon, and Coogler’s dynamic production company.