Albert Hughes, usually half of a directing duo with his brother Allen, struck out on his own last year with the visually stunning Alpha. He’s set to go it alone once again on his next feature. Hughes will direct North Hollywood, a true story based on the deadly 1997 North Hollywood shootout. Inside Man scribe Russell Gewirtz will write the script.
The film will examine the events of February 28, 1997, when the streets of LA became a warzone as a military-style shootout ravaged North Hollywood and became the largest gun battle in the history of American law enforcement. The film focuses on the undermanned heroes who confronted heavily armed bank robbers Larry Phillips Jr. and Emil Matasareanu.
Greg Silverman will produce for Stampede. He said in a statement: “Albert is the dream partner to bring this story to life with his signature style and authentic eye for detail. We’re beyond thrilled to be working with him.
This is an incredible true story many of us remember, and Russell’s script is just electric — a staggering work of drama and violence fuelled by media obsession. It’s a cautionary tale for the world we find ourselves in”.
Hughes has an excellent track record for gritty crime dramas. He helmed Menace II Society and Dead Presidents alongside his brother, and they also directed The Book Of Eli. They’ve always been an underrated filmmaking duo, and it will be fascinating to see Albert’s take on this true story.
This isn’t his only project in the works. He just wrapped filming on Showtime’s adaptation of The Good Lord Bird, which stars Ethan Hawke. Production on North Hollywood will begin early next year in New Mexico. Hughes and the producers have reportedly already in advanced discussions for the film’s ensemble cast.
#Peace.Love.NorthHollywood
