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November 08, 2008


The road has been cleared for a sequel to Tom Hanks-Paul Newman starrer "Road to Perdition."

The 2002 pic was based on the graphic novel by Max Allan Collins, who continued the story in follow-ups "Road to Purgatory" and "Road to Paradise."

Collins will adapt and direct "Purgatory" for his and Jeffrey B. Mallian's JBM Prods. and Joel Eisenberg's EMO Films.

The $20 million indie pic is being shopped at the American Film Market.

Project got the go-ahead in August, when DreamWorks-Paramount waived the right to produce the sequel. DreamWorks released the original "Perdition." As with other DreamWorks titles, "Perdition" came under the Par banner when the studio bought DreamWorks.

"Purgatory" will follow the character of Michael Sullivan Jr. -- the son in "Perdition" -- as he returns home from WWII and vows to avenge the murder of his father. He is ultimately led to Frank Nitti, whom he is urged to kill on the orders of Al Capone.

Phillip W. Dingeldein, also a partner at JBM Prods., is exec producing "Purgatory."

Mallian's producing credits include "Angel Eyes" and "Over the Line."

EMO Films recently wrapped the Columbine-themed "April Showers," with upcoming projects including biopic "Ghoulishly Yours, William M. Gaines."

"Road to Purgatory" will be dedicated to Newman.