Alexander Payne is set to collaborate on a new project with Independent Pictures, directing and co-writing a film that draws inspiration from Oscar Wilde's classic, "The Picture of Dorian Gray."

This upcoming film aims to present a modern take on the story, placing it within the context of Hollywood's film industry. The narrative will introduce fresh elements to the tale of a man who remains ageless—except when one views a hidden portrait of him in the attic. The original novel was previously adapted for the screen back in 1945.

Payne, who recently secured a Writers Guild of America award alongside Jim Taylor for their work on "Election," will be scripting this new project with Nate Goodman, a fellow UCLA alum and experienced camera operator known for contributions to films like "Godzilla." The financing and distribution of the film will be managed by Cary Woods, the chairman of Independent Pictures, through a partnership with either New Line or Fine Line.

This marks Payne's second collaboration with Woods, who previously produced "Citizen Ruth." Interestingly, this endeavor also follows a pattern of Payne recommending talented classmates for projects; the first instance was with Niels Mueller and his script for "The Assassination of Richard Nixon," which Woods acquired and will see directed by Mueller, featuring Sean Penn in the lead role, with Payne serving as an executive producer.

Woods expressed his enthusiasm for Payne's trust in their team, as he brings in two skilled friends from film school whose projects resonate with Payne’s distinctive style and sensibility. Looking ahead, there are plans for Payne to undertake this film after completing his next project. This could either be "Sideways," an adaptation of Rex Pickett's novel for Artisan, or "About Schmidt," which will move forward depending on Jack Nicholson's agreement to star. Gina Mingacci from Independent will oversee the "Dorian Gray" project, with David Hoberman on board as executive producer. Payne is represented by Endeavor, while Goodman is repped by Candace Lake.The production of "Town & Country" has faced significant delays, leading to its stars being invited for a second consecutive year to New Line's product luncheon at Showest.

Despite a star-studded cast including Warren Beatty, Garry Shandling, Goldie Hawn, Diane Keaton, Andie MacDowell, and Nastassja Kinski, the film's podium presence seems unlikely this time around.

Initially anticipated for release last year, the movie is now projected for a fall debut, pending the filming of an improved ending.

Sources suggest that the film's setbacks may stem from the decision to enter production without a finalized script, particularly due to Diane Keaton's contractual timeline for directing "Hanging Up."

In another notable development, Francis Ford Coppola is reaffirming his commitment to loyalty with a new deal at United Artists, which includes the film "Jeepers Creepers."

This project marks a return to studio filmmaking for Victor Salva, a former protégé of Coppola, who had gained early success with "Powder."

However, Salva's career faced a significant challenge when it was revealed that he had previously served time for offenses involving an underage actor in one of his earlier films.

Coppola's support for Salva reflects a belief in second chances, as he embarks on this new project despite the controversies surrounding Salva's past.

While some filmmakers, like Roman Polanski, can continue to work internationally without stigma, questions arise as to why Salva should not also be afforded a similar opportunity after serving his sentence.Seven Arts Pictures has recently acquired the script titled "We Gather Together," crafted by Gretchen Berg and Aaron Harberts, for a significant six-figure sum.

This Thanksgiving-themed story revolves around a group of childhood friends who reunite for the holiday. However, their festivities take a dark turn as it becomes apparent that their host has sinister intentions for the evening.

Neil Canton, a partner at Seven Arts, along with executive vice president of development, Brette Krinick, will oversee the production. They are aiming to commence filming this fall, with a target release for the next Thanksgiving holiday.

Berg and Harberts have just wrapped up their tenure as executive story editors for the second season of "Beverly Hills, 90210" and are currently engaged in rewriting "Valentine" for Warner Bros.

In addition to "We Gather Together," Canton and Krinick are collaborating with Pat Dollard on another project titled "Nothing More Than Murder," featuring Jason Patric in the lead role, adapted from Jim Thompson's novel. They are also working on Bob Gale's screenplay "Interstate 60, Persona Non Grata," which Walter Hill is set to direct, and "Kill Van Kull," a joint venture with Sonnenfeld Josephson.

The writers are represented by Justin Silvera and Chris Von Goetz from Broder, Kurland, Webb, Uffner, along with attorney Gretchen Bruggeman.

In other news, Warner Bros. is in the process of meeting with potential directors for the upcoming Harry Potter film adaptation. The number of directors pitching their interpretations of J.K. Rowling's beloved novel remains uncertain.

Wolfgang Petersen has opted out of the running due to scheduling conflicts with his prior commitments, specifically with the film "The Perfect Storm." Rumors suggest that Rob Reiner may also withdraw, although it has been reported that he chose to step back once he learned that the production would take place in London.

Despite Reiner’s name being frequently mentioned, the ultimate decision-maker is Alan Horn, Reiner's former partner at Castle Rock. This creates a challenging situation for any director, given the pressure of recent less successful projects juxtaposed with his legacy of iconic coming-of-age films like "The Princess Bride" and "Stand By Me."

Additionally, an earlier report regarding the "Groove" team, including Gregory Harrison and Danielle Renfrew's signing with WMA, failed to mention their attorney, Alexander Kohner, who is the grandson of the notable lawyer Paul Kohner from Manatt, Phelps.

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