Back in January, MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – FALLOUT director Christopher McQuarrie announced that he'll be returning to the Tom Cruise-led franchise for not one, but two sequels! When word of McQuarrie signing on to direct a pair of Impossible films hit the airwaves, fans of the filmmaker's sleek style and knack for capturing adrenaline-pumping action on-screen rejoiced. Now, we're hearing that both McQuarrie and INVICTUS scribe Anthony Peckham have joined Showtime's THE PRESIDENT IS MISSING – a drama series adaptation based on the novel by by President Bill Clinton and James Patterson. As per the deal, McQuarrie will executive produce, alongside Heather McQuarrie, the authors of the novel, and Jillian Share of Invisible Ink Productions. The presidential-level project is currently in development with Peckham, Bill Robinson and Leopoldo Gout also looking to executive produce.
When the series takes the podium, it will center on a powerless and politically aimless Vice President who unexpectedly becomes President halfway into his administration’s first term, despite his every wish to the contrary. He walks right into a secret, world-threatening crisis, both inside and outside the White House. Attacked by both friends and enemies alike, with scandal and conspiracy swirling around him, he is confronted with a terrible choice: keep his head down, toe the party line and survive, or act on his stubborn, late-developing conscience and take a stand.
“Christopher McQuarrie is a master of complex and compelling filmmaking. We feel so lucky to have ensnared him along with the supremely talented Tony Peckham to adapt ‘The President Is Missing,’” said Gary Levine, president of entertainment at Showtime Networks. “They are both extremely enthusiastic about bringing this uniquely authentic political thriller to life on Showtime.”
Who's down for a little Mr. McQuarrie Goes to Washington? Personally, I think McQuarrie is a fine choice to bring Clinton and Patterson's story to the small screen, as THE USUAL SUSPECTS screenwriter clearly knows his way around corruption of power, deception, and intrigue.
How does this project strike you? Let us know in the comments section below.