Jack Bauer has been just about everywhere and done just about everything. Everything that is, except get his own theatrical blockbuster. Well, in typical Bauer fashion, he seems poised to cross another bit of the impossible off his bucket list.
According to Variety, Fox is in talks with screenwriter Billy Ray (Shattered Glass) to develop a script for a big budget film spinoff of their hit show 24, which features Kiefer Sutherland as the hard-edged Bauer. Word is Ray’s treatment will feature Bauer taking on baddies somewhere in Europe.
Although Fox hasn’t yet picked up 24 for a ninth season, it appears things are progressing at the film level. And while insider information suggests that Ray has already pitched a version of the film to the studio, it’s hard for me to imagine a film in development if the show proper isn’t picked up for another season. Seemingly, what happens with the film will directly be tied to the future fate of 24 on the small screen. Despite ratings dropping 1o% in total viewers from last year, 24 is still in the top three most watched shows on the network, behind only American Idol and House.
Whatever happens, expect a decision to be made soon regarding 24′s presence in the Fox lineup next season since current production wraps on March 24th. I’d imagine more concrete information regarding a big-screen iteration would shortly follow it.
As far as the odds go for this happening, I certainly don’t want to be the guy betting against Jack. He usually comes through.
AP will keep you updated as the this develops.
