20th Century Studios Secures Rights to “Ripped”

In a strategic move, 20th Century Studios has acquired the rights to Ripped, a short story by Joe Ballarini, for adaptation. This project will be produced by Seven Bucks and 12:01 Films.

Key Players Behind the Project

The production team includes Dany Garcia, Dwayne Johnson, and Hiram Garcia from Seven Bucks, alongside Scott Glassgold from 12:01 Films. Their combined expertise promises to elevate this adaptation.

Potential for Dwayne Johnson’s Involvement

While Johnson is not currently slated to star in Ripped, the narrative features a character that could allow him to showcase his physical prowess. The story revolves around an insecure man who, in preparation for his wedding, immerses himself in a rigorous underground training facility led by a charismatic fitness guru, who garners a cult-like following with the allure of achieving peak performance at any cost.

Expanding the Story

Ballarini will adapt his own short story for the screen. Additionally, he has secured a deal with Simon & Schuster/Atria to expand Ripped into a full-length novel under their new horror imprint, 12:01 Books.

Collaboration with Disney

Ripped is part of Seven Bucks’ first-look deal with The Walt Disney Company, established last year. This multi-year agreement enables Seven Bucks to collaborate across various Disney divisions. Among the exciting projects in development is an untitled crime thriller set in Hawaii, featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, Emily Blunt, and Johnson, with Martin Scorsese directing. Notably, the writer, Nick Bilton, also secured a book deal during the project’s development, with Johnson co-writing the book.

Glassgold’s Track Record

Scott Glassgold has proven to be a powerhouse in adapting short stories into films, with Ripped marking his company’s third project sold and set up this year. His portfolio is attracting top-tier talent and includes projects like After Shock at Lionsgate, featuring Brandon Sklenar, and Fake Wedding at Amazon MGM Studios, starring Lili Reinhart. Other notable projects from 12:01 Films include I Bought a Ranch at Amazon, with Drew Hancock writing and directing, and The Dwelling at Amazon, featuring Michael B. Jordan.

Ballarini’s Previous Successes

Ballarini has previously adapted his best-selling book A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting into a film for Netflix. His upcoming project, The Bluff, is an action movie starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas and produced by the Russo Brothers, set for release by Amazon MGM later this year.

Representation

Ballarini is represented by Verve and attorney Jeff Frankel.

Persons

Joe Ballarini, Dany Garcia, Dwayne Johnson, Hiram Garcia, Scott Glassgold, Leonardo DiCaprio, Emily Blunt, Martin Scorsese, Nick Bilton, Brandon Sklenar, Lili Reinhart, Drew Hancock, Michael B. Jordan, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Russo Bros, Jeff Frankel

Company Names

20th Century Studios, Seven Bucks, 12:01 Films, Simon & Schuster, Atria, 12:01 Books, The Walt Disney Company, Lionsgate, Amazon MGM Studios, Verve

Titles

Ripped, A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting, The Bluff

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