Dimension Films announced today that Derrickson, who brought us the awesomely scary based-on-a-true-story THE EXORCISM OF EMILY ROSE, and co-writer Paul Harris Boardman (who also co-wrote EMILY ROSE) have been signed on to make DEVIL’S KNOT, based on the book by Mara Leveritt. Apparently it’s another tale of horror base on true events, as the story revolves around the brutal murder or three eight year-old boys in a small, rural and socially conservative town in Arkansas, which is plagued with corruption and violence. The story follows the trial of three teen suspects with alleged ties to satanic rituals who are ultimately convicted of the crime, in spite of the mishandling of the crime scene and forensic evidence.
Wow. Now that’s f*cked up. And it sounds like a pretty gripping tale of terror, that’s for sure. Nothing freaks me out more than the stories of sick and twisted folks from real life. I can see Derrickson doing something great here, and I really can’t wait to check it out. Production is scheduled to start by the end of the year, which means they’re probably looking for a Fall 2007 release- maybe even in time to be recognised by the Academy? We’ll have to wait and see.
Stay tuned for more info. on DEVIL’S KNOT, as casting news is sure to follow.