Chris Columbus’ 1492 Pictures has acquired the rights to John Grisham’s best-selling novel Calico Joe. Columbus (pictured) will adapt the novel to direct as a feature.

Grisham will executive produce and Columbus will produce with 1492 resident Michael Barnathan and Mark Radcliffe.

A father-son story set in the world of professional baseball, the novel was published in April debuted at number one on the New York Times bestseller list.

Said Columbus: “When I finished this beautiful, deeply moving novel I immediately started to see the movie in my head. I knew that I had to write and direct Calico Joe. The story deals with universal themes of betrayal, tragedy and redemption. It has the potential to be a classic film and I am honored to be a part of it.”

Columbus and 1492 Pictures are represented by WME. Grisham is represented by David Gernert of The Gernert Company.

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