Adrian Lyne Dips Into Deep Water

We’re now into 11 years since Adrian Lyne released a film with 2002’s Unfaithful. He’s been contemplating a family drama with Back Roads and is also attached to John Grisham adaptation The Associate. Yet his attention has been caught by the appeal of bringing a Patricia Highsmith thriller to the screen, and he’s now made a deal to direct Deep Water. Zach Helm has adapted and modernised the story of Vic and Melinda, a young, beautiful married couple that like to play sexy mind games with each other to keep their relationship interesting. But then, in true Highsmith style, people start turning up dead. According to Deadline, talks are under way with a big name to star, but that might impact when Water gets flowing, as scheduling may become an issue. There’s a chance it’ll have to wait until Lyne finishes either Back Roads or The Associate, both of which are still lurking in development. Still, the Deep Water producers (including writer/producer Steve Zaillian) will be hoping it gets made sooner rather than later, as they’ve been holding on to the rights to the story from the Highsmith estate for eight years now, and finally have a script they like. With Lyne aboard – and firmly in his steamy thriller wheelhouse – things could actually move forward.