Myriad Pictures is producing an adaptation of Elmore Leonard’s crime caper Freaky Deaky with Matthau Media and is presenting the project to buyers here.

Production is earmarked for the first quarter of 2011 with Charles Matthau set to direct and produce alongside Michael Meltzer and Judd Rubin.

Myriad head Kirk D’Amico holds all international rights including Canada and will serve as executive producer with Tom Ortenberg, whose One Way Out Media represents US rights.

Freaky Deaky tells the tale of two former lovers and extreme radicals with a penchant for bomb-making who reunite to steal millions from a wealthy accomplice they believe framed them. Leonard has often cited the book as his favourite.

“Charlie has a real passion for the book and just let himself channel Leonard as he wrote the screenplay,” D’Amico said. “The book came to life. The characters are unique and funny and beautifully developed.

“The script has a significant action element as well, and that’s consistently a genre that is appealing globally. I’m also very pleased to be working with Tom Ortenberg, who is a talented and experienced distribution professional.”

“We are delighted to be working with Myriad on Freaky Deaky,” Matthau said. “Kirk and his team possess the rare triple threat of encyclopedic knowledge of the international sales market, integrity, and superb taste.”

“I am delighted to be producing with such a talented and well -rounded group of film-makers.” Meltzer added. “It gives me great confidence that we will make a terrific film.”

Matthau is the son of the late Walter Matthau and is currently in post-production on the Las Vegas jazz musical Baby O starring Twilight’s Billy Burke and Theresa Russell. 

Myriad’s Toronto slate includes the upcoming financial thriller Margin Call with Kevin Spacey, Jacob Tierney’s thriller GoodNeighbours playing in the festival, recent acquisition Nice Guy Johnny directed by Ed Burns, and Every Day, which Image Entertainment picked up for the US.

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