The journey of adapting Erik Larson’s bestselling non-fiction classic, The Devil in the White City, for the screen has been nothing short of tumultuous. From Leonardo DiCaprio buying the film rights in 2010 to the recent developments with ABC Signature, the project has been through multiple stages of development. The initial plan was for DiCaprio to star in the feature film under Paramount with Martin Scorsese set to direct. However, as time passed, the project shifted gears and was announced as a big-budget series by Hulu in 2019, with DiCaprio and Scorsese as executive producers.
The Hulu Dilemma
Last year, Hulu surprised many by deciding not to proceed with the adaptation, leaving the fate of the project hanging by a thread. Despite this setback, ABC Signature, in association with Paramount Television Studios, expressed a continued commitment to the project. Stacey Sher, who has been with the project from the beginning, reassured fans that the adaptation is still in the works. Her unwavering dedication to the project speaks volumes about the passion and determination driving the team behind The Devil in the White City.
When asked about the timeline for the screen version of Larson’s book, Sher remained optimistic. She stated, “I hope so. It’s not imminent, but it is not ever far from my mind.” These words reflect the resilience and perseverance of the team involved in bringing this complex story to life on screen. The fact that big names like Rick Yorn, Leo DiCaprio, Jen Davisson, and Mr. Scorsese are still attached to the project is a testament to their faith in the story and its potential.
At the heart of The Devil in the White City is the chilling tale of Dr. HH Holmes, a cunning serial killer who operated during the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 in Chicago. The juxtaposition of the grandeur and innovation of the Exposition with Holmes’ heinous crimes creates a compelling narrative that explores the darkest aspects of human nature. The intricacies of Holmes’ character and the historical backdrop of the Exposition have captivated readers since the book’s publication in 2003.
The journey of adapting The Devil in the White City has been filled with twists and turns. From Tom Cruise’s initial optioning of the book to DiCaprio’s rival project and eventual acquisition of the rights, the story behind the adaptation is as intriguing as the book itself. The shift from a feature film to a series, with changes in casting and directing along the way, underscores the challenges faced in bringing this complex story to the screen. Despite the setbacks and changes, the core team involved in the project remains steadfast in their commitment to seeing it through.
The journey of adapting The Devil in the White City for the screen is a testament to the resilience, dedication, and passion of all those involved. While the road may have been long and fraught with challenges, the unwavering commitment of the team behind the project ensures that the captivating story of Dr. HH Holmes and the World’s Columbian Exposition will eventually come to life in a compelling and unforgettable way.
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