Hollywood is preparing to bring another John Grisham story to the big screen, with actor-director Jason Bateman attached to direct a film based on Grisham’s 1997 novel The Partner. Tom Holland is reportedly in talks to take the lead role in the project, which revolves around a lawyer who fakes his death in order to steal $90 million and cover for a shady client. This latest adaptation follows a line of successful cinematic versions of Grisham’s works, including A Time to Kill and The Firm.
Background on Development and Production Plans
Previously, John Lee Hancock, known for The Blind Side, was linked to directing The Partner with a screenplay by Graham Moore. That version shifted from New Regency to Universal Pictures, who are now backing Bateman’s adaptation. Michael Costigan of Aggregate Films is producing the film, with Bateman also serving as an executive producer. Tom Holland is involved not only as the likely star but also as a producer through his Billy 17 banner, alongside Will South and Harry Holland.
Industry Leadership and Creative Team
Universal Pictures’ production development is being led by Senior Vice President Ryan Jones and Director Jacqueline Garell, who are overseeing the project. Bateman recently appeared in the Netflix thriller Black Rabbit with Jude Law and directed several episodes of the series. His directing credits include The Family Fang and Bad Words, and he earned a Primetime Emmy Award in 2019 for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series for his work on Netflix’s Ozark.
Tom Holland’s Upcoming Projects
Alongside his potential starring role in The Partner, Holland has multiple high-profile projects lined up, such as The Odyssey with Christopher Nolan and Spider-Man: Brand New Day.
