'Sopranos' Creator Eyes the Big Screen

Zap2It.com | May 9, 2008

David Chase

Discuss this story now

David Chase will write, direct and produce an 'original drama' for Paramount

David Chase has committed to writing, directing and producing his first feature film for Paramount, but it won't be a "Sopranos" movie.

The theatrical pact reunites Chase with Paramount Studios Chairman Brad Gray, a producing partner on "The Sopranos."

"David is one of the great storytellers of our time, and his debut as a filmmaker is both highly anticipated and long overdue," Grey says in a statement. "In truth, David has been creating cinematic-quality filmed drama for more than a decade -- spanning nine seasons and 86 episodes of 'The Sopranos.' Having worked with David as a producer, I'm delighted to be with him again and to bring his unique vision to the big screen."

The official press release announcing Chase's Paramount deal offers nary a hint on the plot, genre or theme of his intended feature, other than to call it an "original drama," meaning that this won't be the "Sopranos" feature that some closure-hungry fans have been clamoring for since the drama's finale last summer.

"Brad has always been adventurous as a producer and looked for different ways of doing things," says Chase. "I look forward to once again working with him, and now his team. For years, Brad has been a great partner, who helped enable me to do what I need to creatively."

In addition to creating and running "The Sopranos" during its acclaimed run, Chase's previous TV credits include "The Rockford Files," "I'll Fly Away" and "Northern Exposure."