Aug 6, 2008 - Adam Shankman (Hairspray) has found his next project. The choreographer/director will helm the big screen adaptation of Playing for Pizza based on John Grisham's bestselling book. J Mills Goodloe (Pride) will adapt the story for Phoenix Pictures, with Mike Medavoy, Arnie Messer and David Thwaites attached as producers.

In a press release announcing his involvement, Shankman said, "I'm thrilled to be working with Phoenix and John Grisham on this adaptation.

I've been wanting to do an aggressive, adult, character dramedy for some time. Everyone in my life are insane football fanatics, so this project is a perfect, and organic story for me and my company. We can't wait to get started."

Producer Medavoy was quoted as saying, "All of us at Phoenix are very excited to be working with Adam and Mills on this John Grisham book, which to us is reminiscent of films like Jerry Maguire and Bull Durham."

Playing for Pizza follows a quarterback whose NFL run has come to an end. Even with an agent actively campaigning for him, he's unable to get signed by any NFL team following one particularly horrible performance. His last option: an Italian team in which a lot of the players play just for their love of the game (and for free food).

Shankman's currently completing work on the comedy movie Bedtime Stories starring Adam Sandler.

Source: Phoenix Pictures