Great news for fans of Robert Ludlum’s spy novels: Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has signed on to star in the adaptation of The Janson Directive. Universal Pictures is joining forces with screenwriter James Vanderbuilt to develop a series of action-packed thrillers based on the works of best-selling author, Robert Ludlum, the man responsible for creating the Jason Bourne franchise.
As with the Bourne series, The Jansen Directive will be a non-stop, roller-coaster ride of intense action and intrigue. The story revolves around a man considered to be the best private security consultant in the world, who was framed for the brutal murder of a prominent Nobel laureate. In an effort to survive and clear his name, he has no choice but to work with the man sent to kill him.
“The Janson Directive is classic Robert Ludlum,” Johnson recently told The Hollywood Reporter. “Sharp, edgy and layered storylines. The character is complex, conflicted, bad ass and lethal — I can’t wait to sink my teeth into this and bring him to life. Between Jamie, Akiva, Captivate and Universal, it’s an exciting time to help produce and build out this awesome Ludlum universe.”
With Johnson taking the reins as the leading man, this series is sure to be a hugely successful franchise where fans of both Ludlum and ‘The Rock’ will keep coming back for more. Along with starring in the much-anticipated, full-throttle flick, Johnson and partner Dany Garcia are executive producing via Seven Bucks with Tracey Nyberg of Mythology.
