Los Angeles-based Inferno Distribution has optioned Tara Ison's romantic novel The List, which was published in March and centres on a dysfunctional couple's desperate final act.

The pair make a list of 10 ideal dates before they agree to part amicably. However as the dates progress they begin to see each other in a new light.

Inferno partner Bill Johnson will produce with partner Jim Seibel serving as executive producer.

'We immediately saw the commercial potential in this concept and we feel like anyone who has ever broken up with someone or been involved in a love/hate relationship will be able to relate to this story,' Johnson said.

'As Inferno continues to solidify itself not only as a financier but a production company, we intend to keep focusing on development opportunities like The List,' Seibel said. The project is currently out to writers.

Inferno is in post-production on The Women starring Annette Bening, Meg Ryan and Eva Mendes, and is preparing to shoot Richard Gere in the drama remake Hachiko: A Dog's Story.