Netflix has successfully acquired the rights to adapt the graphic novel Torso, based on the true crime story of Elliot Ness, in a deal reportedly exceeding $1 million. This marks a significant development for the long-anticipated project, which has circulated in Hollywood for nearly two decades. The adaptation will be produced by Zach Cregger, known for his recent successes with horror films such as Weapons and Barbarian.
While a director has not yet been announced, Cregger will collaborate with producers Alex Hedlund and Nick Antosca from their company Eat the Cat. Both Hedlund and Antosca have a track record for producing compelling true crime narratives, notably Candy and A Friend of the Family. The involvement of Bendis and Marc Andreyko as executive producers adds further credibility to the project, given their legacy in the graphic novel space.
From Comics to Screen: The Story Behind ‘Torso’
Originally published by Image Comics in 1998, Torso delves into the life of Elliot Ness following the infamous Al Capone era. Set in Cleveland, the narrative revolves around Ness as he investigates a series of murders known as the Cleveland Torso Murders. The killer left dismembered torsos in the river alongside taunting notes directed at local law enforcement.
The inspiration for the graphic novel stemmed from Bendis’ access to case files related to the murders, which included photographs, newspaper articles, and written testimonies from Ness himself. This rich source material provides a compelling foundation for a cinematic adaptation that promises to capture the tension and intrigue of the original story.
A Long-Awaited Journey to the Big Screen
Since its inception, the project has seen various names linked to it, including directors David Lowery, Paul Greengrass, and David Fincher, as well as actor Matt Damon being considered for a potential role. Over the years, different scripts were rumored to have been developed by writers like Ehren Kruger and Brian Helgeland, indicating the project’s long and complex history.
With Cregger at the helm, fans are now more optimistic about the adaptation’s potential. His previous work in the horror genre has garnered attention and praise, making his involvement in Torso particularly noteworthy. As anticipation builds for this adaptation, it remains to be seen how the team will translate the graphic novel’s chilling narrative to the screen.
As discussions surrounding the project continue, fans of the original graphic novel are eager to see how the story of Elliot Ness will unfold in a new medium. The adaptation of Torso represents not just a cinematic venture but also a chance to revisit a captivating chapter of true crime history.
