Austin Butler has been eagerly attached to portray the lead role in a highly anticipated adaptation of Don Winslow’s gripping novel City on Fire for the past two years. Excitingly, this project is finally gaining momentum as it has secured a director. According to Deadline, acclaimed filmmaker Matt Ross, known for his work on Captain Fantastic, has been appointed to helm the film, which will be produced under Sony’s 3000 Pictures label.
The novel serves as the captivating first part of a trilogy that intricately “explores the fierce rivalry between two powerful criminal empires—one Irish and the other Italian—that dominate New England. The plot thickens when a contemporary Helen of Troy disrupts the balance, igniting a violent conflict. The protagonist, Danny Ryan, must evolve from a mere street soldier into a shrewd and relentless leader, fighting against the Mafia, local law enforcement, and federal agents alike to safeguard his loved ones and his cherished home. In this brutal saga, he either builds a criminal dynasty or faces death in his pursuit.” Should the film achieve success, it’s likely that the subsequent novels, City of Dreams and City in Ruins, will follow in its wake.
The screenplay for City on Fire is being adapted by Justin Kuritzkes, recognized for his work on Challengers. In a strategic collaboration, Butler will also take on a producing role alongside David Heyman of Heyday Films and Shane Salerno from The Story Factory.
Many recognize Matt Ross not only for his directorial endeavors but also for his on-screen roles in notable films like American Psycho and The Aviator. His television credits include memorable characters such as Alby Grant on Big Love and Gavin Belson on Silicon Valley. Ross made his feature directorial debut with 28 Hotel Rooms, a film featuring Chris Messina and Marin Ireland. His following project, Captain Fantastic, released in 2016, showcased Viggo Mortensen as a father forced to navigate the complexities of society after a decade of isolation, earning Mortensen an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
“We are thrilled that esteemed producer David Heyman will collaborate with Austin Butler and Shane Salerno to bring Don Winslow’s remarkable trilogy to life, starting with City on Fire,” expressed Elizabeth Gabler, head of Sony 3000, when the project was initially revealed. “Don is not only an iconic author but a master in the realm of suspenseful crime fiction, having crafted one of the most unforgettable modern heroes in Danny Ryan, the intricate and engaging protagonist of this trilogy. It’s a dream realized to see Austin, with his exceptional and charismatic talent, breathe life into this character and narrative on the big screen.“
Winslow shared his enthusiasm, stating, “Like countless admirers globally, I was astounded by Austin Butler’s Oscar-nominated portrayal in Elvis. I have engaged in numerous discussions with Austin regarding this trilogy, which has been a labor of love for nearly 30 years, and I am genuinely impressed by his dedication to embodying Danny Ryan. His enthusiasm for co-producing these films with David, Shane, Elizabeth, and Marisa is equally inspiring.“
