The Weinstein Company (TWC) has confirmed that ithas hired Paul McGuigan to direct Four Knights, a Western-style take on the assassinationof the 12th century Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Becket.

Production is set to start in the UK this autumn based on PaulWebb's play Four Knights In Knaresboro. It is understood the project will portray the assassins asa bawdy gang of adventurers constantly on the run from the authorities.

According to unconfirmed reports McGuigan, who previously directedMiddle Ages-set drama The Reckoning, initially passed on the script but reconsidered when HarveyWeinstein asked him to make it like a Western.

Webb is adapting the screenplay and Laurence Bowen of UK-based FeelgoodFiction is serving as producer. Casting will be announced shortly.

TWC's executive vice president of European production anddevelopment Colin Vaines and director of development and production RhodriThomas are overseeing for the company.

Co-president of production Michael Cole and executive vicepresident of business and legal affairs Eric Roth negotiated the agreement for TWC.

McGuigan, whose creditsinclude Lucky Number Slevin,released by The Weinstein Co in North America, and Gangster No.1, is represented by ICM.