Ben Affleck to direct adaptation of The Big Goodbye

Ben Affleck

Deadline has reported that Ben Affleck has signed on to write and direct The Big Goodbye for Paramount Pictures, a big-screen adaptation of Sam Wasson's widely acclaimed account of the making of Chinatown. Lorne Michaels (Saturday Night Live), who acquired the rights to the book and set the deal up with Paramount, will co-produce with Affleck.

Lorne Michaels

It is not yet known if Affleck will act in the film, or if any actors have been cast.

Matt Damon (supposedly!)

Interestingly enough, though, his longtime friend and collaborator, Matt Damon, was snapped back in May visiting Affleck's home with a copy of The Big Goodbye in hand, but it's also unknown if Damon will be working on the project in any capacity.