FLASH: Winona Ryder & her White Jazz defense gambit

JAMES ELLROY'S:

An adaptation of "WHITE JAZZ," the fourth volume in James Ellroy's "L.A. Quartet," is currently in pre-production starring Nick Nolte and John Cusack. Robert Richardson will direct.

In early December 2001, Coming Soon, citing Variety, reported: " German-based VIF Intl. Films has come aboard to finance "White Jazz," a $28 million follow-up to "L.A. Confidential." The company will co-produce the film with Nick Nolte's Kingsgate Films and L.A.-based production company Interlight. Nolte and John Cusack are set to star in the film, with Winona Ryder reportedly in discussions to join them."

On Dec. 20, 2001, Empire Online interviewed John Cusack, who noted "White Jazz" will likely go before cameras early next year. “I think we’re filming in January or February (2002),” Cusack said, “they’re waiting to put the financing together.” Cusack, who will play Junior Stemmons, went on to say, “There are three scripts that I’ve read that I thought were sterling in the past five years, Being John Malkovich, Max and White Jazz.” The actor continued: “It’s set in 50s Los Angeles — typical James Ellroy insanity — really dark but very kind of dreamscapey.” Adapted from James Ellroy's novel, "White Jazz" will be directed by Robert Richardson.

Christopher Cleveland and Ellroy wrote the screenplay. The movie is being produced by Kingsgate Films Interlight.

In an April 12, 2001 interview, Ellroy said that he had been told filming of "White Jazz" would commence in early July, 2001. He went on to say, however, that any pledges from film producers must be taken with a "shaker" of salt.

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