By Zanub Saeed
Universal Studios and Focus Films purchased the film rights to the raunchy trilogy of books "Fifty Shades of Grey," adapted from "Twilight" fanfiction by E.L. James, and have now announced the producers of the series - "The Social Network"'s Michael De Luca and Dana Brunetti.
The pair, who was nominated for Best Picture for their work in the biopic based on the earlier life of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, will reteam again, as announced by the studios on Monday and reported by The Hollywood Reporter this week.
"I am thrilled that Mike has joined Team Fifty. He brings a passion for and in-depth understanding of the characters and story and a wealth of experience in making quality films," James was quoted as stating, said The Hollywood Reporter.
Universal got the rights, for which they paid a pricey $5 million to James, after a heated bidding war between studios back in March. The books so far have sold over 31 million copies, both in paperback and e-book format, worldwide.
"At its core, Fifty Shades of Grey is a complex love story, requiring a delicate and sophisticated hand to bring it to the big screen," said Universal co-chairman Donna Langley in a statement published by The Hollywood Reporter. "Mike and Dana's credits more than exemplify what we need in creative partners, and we're glad to have them as part of our team."
Presently, De Luca and Brunetti are working with fellow producer Scott Rudin on "Captain Phillips," based on the true story of a cargo ship captain held captive by Somali pirates, and was then saved by Navy SEALS, noted The Hollywood Reporter. The movie is directed by Paul Greengrass and stars Oscar-winner Tom Hanks as the captain.
"Michael De Luca is a dream producer, whose combination of vision, taste and fearlessness is the perfect match for Fifty Shades of Grey," said Focus' CEO James Schamus in the press release issued by Universal and Focus, and published by The Hollywood Reporter.
Currently early discussions are being made on casting the two leads for the series, the billionaire Christian and his love interest Anastasia. Many celebrities have commented on their interest in the roles, though nothing has been confirmed so far.
