Background | Opportunities | Casting

This adaptation of one of Henry James best-known works captures the novella’s dark humor and infuses it with an original back story of murder and duplicitous love that explains the importance and contents of these titular papers. With elements of comedy, horror and suspense, this adaptation addresses such themes as the difference between genius and ambition, and their impact on love and success. The four central actors all play dual roles — providing strong appeal for top-level young actors.

One of the strongest hooks for this project, both in terms of commercial appeal and dramatic resonance is the casting potential: All four lead actors play two crucial roles, one in the present story, and one in the past story. Not only do these dual roles and stories reflect and comment upon one another, but they create a strong appeal for young Hollywood actors seeking to display their acting abilities. We believe that this script will be able to be cast with the best talent available.

In addition, this script can be filmed relatively inexpensively for a potentially large return. Exteriors in Venice necessitate the only notable below-the-line costs. Interiors can be filmed domestically, still allowing the film to have the sumptuous feel of Venice and New York City of the past.

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