The script is being written by Zak Olkewicz (Fear Street) and Leitch is overseeing revisions.
The studio is moving like a speeding locomotive on this one, hoping to shoot this fall. The film is a contained thriller, which means it can be shot on a contained set and more easily follow health restrictions than a sprawling action movie with actual locations. Pitt previously appeared in a cameo role in Leitch’s Deadpool 2, and the filmmaker also worked as Pitt’s stunt double in films such as Ocean’s 11 and Troy.
Antoine Fuqua, who originally developed the project, is producing alongside Leitch and Kelly McCormick via their 87 North banner, as well as Kat Samick. Ryosuke Saegusa and Yuma Terada, co-founders of CTB Inc., who represent Isaka and the intellectual property, are acting as executive producers on the project.
Brittany Morrissey will oversee the project on behalf of the studio.
Separately, Harvill Secker recently announced that it will publish the novel in English next year.
Pitt, repped by CAA and Brillstien, recently picked up an Oscar for his role in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.