Maya Entertainment has boarded the drama American Tragic starring America Ferrera, Melissa Leo and newcomer Ryan O'Nan.

Ryan Piers Williams will direct from his own screenplay about a disillusioned veteran who goes on a road trip in search of happiness. June Diane Raphael also stars. Production is set to begin in New Mexico in February in time for an autumn 2009 release.

Heather Rae is producing and Sergio Aguero will serve as executive producer alongside Ferrera and her Take Fountain Productions.

'Ryan has written a very compelling film that will surely resonate with both Latino and mainstream audiences,' Maya Entertainment co-chair Jeff Valdez said.

Maya previously collaborated with Ferrera on the drama How The Garcia Girls Spent Their Summer.