The journey to adapt Erik Larson’s bestselling non-fiction classic, The Devil in the White City, has been nothing short of tumultuous. From Leonardo DiCaprio purchasing the film rights in 2010 to various stages of development, the project has seen its fair share of setbacks and reboots. Initially set up as a feature film at Paramount with Martin Scorsese attached to direct and DiCaprio to star, the project took a turn when Hulu announced its plans to develop it as a big-budget series in 2019. However, last year, Hulu decided to pass on the project, leaving its future uncertain.
Despite these obstacles, there seems to be a glimmer of hope for The Devil in the White City adaptation. Stacey Sher, the producer who has been involved with the project since its inception, remains steadfast in her commitment. When asked about the status of the adaptation, Sher expressed optimism, stating, “I’m still involved. I never give up.” She hinted at the possibility of seeing Larson’s book come to life on screen, saying, “It’s not imminent, but it is not ever far from my mind.”
One of the key factors that keep the project alive is the continued involvement of the big names attached to it. Sher confirmed that the band is still together, including Rick Yorn, Leo DiCaprio, Jen Davisson, and Mr. Scorsese. Their unwavering dedication to bringing The Devil in the White City to fruition is a testament to their passion for the project.
The Devil in the White City follows the story of Dr. HH Holmes, a cunning serial killer who operated during the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 in Chicago. The book juxtaposes the grandeur of the Exposition with the sinister deeds of Holmes, creating a compelling narrative that explores the contrasts between light and darkness. With its complex themes and intricate storyline, adapting Larson’s book for the screen presents a unique challenge that requires careful navigation.
Over the years, The Devil in the White City adaptation has gone through multiple iterations, with different actors, directors, and platforms attached to it. From Tom Cruise’s initial interest in playing the killer to Keanu Reeves stepping into the role for the Hulu series, the project has seen many changes. Despite these shifts, the core essence of the story remains intact, resonating with audiences and drawing them into its captivating world of mystery and intrigue.
The ongoing saga of adapting The Devil in the White City is a testament to the resilience and determination of the team behind it. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks, the project continues to move forward, driven by a shared passion for bringing Larson’s iconic book to life on screen. As the journey towards adaptation unfolds, one thing remains clear – the devil is in the details, but so is the hope for a successful and compelling adaptation of this literary masterpiece.
Leave a Reply