Jason Bateman is preparing to direct a new film based on John Grisham’s novel The Partner, with Tom Holland in negotiations to star. The project, backed by Universal, will be Bateman’s third feature as a director and he will also serve as an executive producer through his Aggregate Films company.
Tom Holland Eyed for Lead Role of Patrick Lanigan
Tom Holland, best known for his role as Spider-Man, is linked to the film as both producer and lead actor. While his deal remains unofficial, he is expected to portray Patrick Lanigan, described as
“a young partner in a white shoe Biloxi law firm who fakes his own death.”
The story tracks Lanigan after he abandons his prior life following a scheme where he
“steals $90 million from a client of his crooked law firm.”
Plot Overview: Escape, Pursuit, and Consequences
Lanigan finds refuge and love in South America, but his past catches up with him when the defrauded client discovers the missing funds from offshore accounts. This initiates a relentless search, forcing Lanigan to surrender to the FBI and confront the life he left behind, including his wife and child, as outlined by industry reports.
Experienced Screenwriter and Current Projects
The screenplay will be written by Graham Moore, known for his Oscar-winning work on The Imitation Game. Meanwhile, Bateman has recently appeared in the Netflix crime thriller Black Rabbit, where he was seen at the premiere with his co-star Laura Linney, familiar from his work on Ozark.
Significance and Anticipation for the Adaptation
This adaptation marks a noteworthy collaboration between Tom Holland and Jason Bateman, merging star power with directorial vision while revisiting a compelling Grisham narrative. The film’s development highlights Universal’s continued investment in high-profile legal thrillers and sets expectations for a tense, character-driven thriller.
