Curtis Hanson to direct ‘Mavericks’

Walden Media has tapped Curtis Hanson to direct surfing drama “Mavericks,” with Brandon Hooper and Jim Meenaghan producing.

The story, based on Hooper’s script, centers on the late Jay Moriarity and his quest to ride the iconic Northern California break known as Mavericks, where winter swells bring in treacherous waves the size of five-story buildings.

Moriarity trained for more than a year under mentor Frosty Hesson, and in the process the two forged a unique relationship that ultimately transformed both their lives. Moriarity’s story remains an inspiration to surfers around the globe, who’ve coined the phrase, “Live like Jay.”

Moriarty died in 2001 in a diving accident in the Maldive Islands.

Kario Salem (“Don King: Only in America”) penned the previous draft of “Mavericks.”

Walden topper Michael Bostick told Daily Variety that he and Hanson are meeting with visual effects experts over how to best capture the massive waves on film. “We’re very committed to showing this world authentically,” he added.

Bostick also said he’s hoping to go into production by the end of the year but added that no casting decisions have been made.

Hanson, helmer of “8 Mile” and “L.A. Confidential,” is attached to direct sci-fi thriller “Gemini Man” for Disney and Jerry Bruckheimer.

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