Comic book Ex
Machina headed for the big screen

New Line Cinema has picked up the rights to the critically acclaimed comic book Ex Machina by creators Brian Vaughan and Tony Harris. Chris Bender and JC Spink are producing via their Benderspink shingle. Ex Machina is a political thriller published by DC Comics' Wildstorm division that tackles the question of what happens when a man who has superpowers realizes he can be of better service to humanity by becoming a politician--in this case, the mayor of New York. The comic explores such hot-button issues as 9/11, same-sex marriage, the shades of gray in political realities, and the idea that there is no room for heroes in politics.

Two versions of the script are being prepped. As part of the deal, Vaughan is writing one version, while Glen Brunswick, cocreator of comic book The Gray Area with famed artist John Romita Jr., will write an adaptation as well. Brunswick also is attached in a production capacity. Cale Boyter and Ryan Markowitz are overseeing for New Line. (Borys Kit, via Reuters)