The folk horror comic book series “Black Diamond” is officially being adapted into a feature film from Fangoria Studios and Panick Studios, Variety has exclusively learned.
Ernest Dickerson, known for helming episodes of “The Walking Dead” and films including “Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight” and “Bones” is set to direct and executive produce. Brendan Columbus, original creator of the cult comic book series, will write the script.
Compared to both “The Wicker Man” and Hitchcock, an official description of the film teases: “‘Black Diamond’ follows Owen and Victoria Welch on a family ski trip that spirals into a nightmare. When their son is abducted by a mysterious cult, the couple is pushed to the brink and faced with a soul-crushing ultimatum: sacrifice another child or lose their own forever.”
“‘Black Diamond’ was my attempt to put everything I love about thrillers on the page,” Columbus said in a statement. “I want to make sure it feels like you physically can’t leave the theater or else you’ll miss the next twist or turn. With his masterful cinematic eye and his great story sense, Ernest is going to scare the hell out of everyone with this one.”
Producers for Fangoria Studios include Tara Ansley, Abhi Goel and Armen Aghaeian. Producers for Panick Studios include Columbus, Adam Schlagman and Kris Longo. Rose Geddes executive produces alongside Dickerson.
Dickerson recently directed episodes of “Bosch: Legacy,” “The Irrational,” “Parish,” “DMZ,” “Raised by Wolves” and “Bosch.” His storied career in cinematography includes working with Spike Lee on “Do the Right Thing,” “She’s Gotta Have It” and “Mo’ Better Blues.”
Upcoming Fangoria releases include “Goodbye, Monster” and “Sitora,” which is currently in production. “Black Diamond” marks Panick’s first feature.
