Uni Finds A 'leading Man'

Universal Pictures has optioned the rights to the comic book "The Leading Man" from Oni Press. Marc Platt will produce through his Marc Platt Prods. banner along with Eric Gitter via his Closed on Mondays Entertainment banner, which has a partnership with Oni Press.

Written by B. Clay Moore and illustrated by Jeremy Haun, the comic follows the adventures of the world's biggest movie star, Nick Walter. Walter uses his celebrity, access, lifestyle and his films' international location shoots as a cover for his real job, that of an international spy. The first issue was published July 13. Moore wrote "Hawaiian Dick," which is set up at New Line.

The "Leading Man" project was developed by Closed on Mondays principals Gitter, Peter Schwerin and Joe Nozemack.

Universal's Jeffrey Kirschenbaum will oversee the project for the studio. Marc Platt Prods. creative executives Adam Siegel and Jared Leboff are overseeing the project for the company.

Portland, Ore.-based Oni is an independent comic book publisher. Several of its titles have been optioned, including "Scott Pilgrim," which is being developed by Platt and Gitter. Other titles include "Whiteout," "The Coffin" and "Queen and Country."

Platt has been on a comic book tear lately. This deal follows his setting up the comic "Tag" two weeks ago and "Talent" before that. Platt is producing both with Boom Entertainment. He also has the comic "Wanted" in development.

Oni Press, Eric Gitter and Gitter's Closed On Mondays Entertainment company are repped by UTA.