Director: Richard J. Lewis
Writer(s): Michael Konyves
Producers: Robert Lantos
Distributor: Rights Available.

The Gist: Based on the novel by Mordecai Richler, this tells the story of the politically incorrect, fully lived life of the impulsive, irascible and fearlessly blunt Barney Panofsky (Giamatti)…(more)

Cast: Paul Giamatti, Rosamund Pike, Dustin Hoffman, Rachelle Lefevre, Bruce Greenwood, Minnie Driver, and Scott Speedman.

Why is it on the list?: If the film somehow retains the complex nature (narrator) of the novel, then I think we’ll understand why this project which has been in the works for more than a decade (see news report here). A great ensemble lead by Paul Giamatti and cameos from David Cronenberg and Atom Egoyan should make this a savory blend.

Release Date/Status?: This Canadian production should be TIFF’s 2010 opening film. U.S purchase a done deal with names like Giamatti and Hoffman on board.

Source.