Espinosa Cares For "Child 44"

"Safe House" director Daniel Espinosa is in early talks to call action on an adaptation of author Tom Rob Smith's novel "Child 44" reports Deadline.

The first book in a trilogy is set in the Joseph Stalin-era Soviet Union and follows disgraced lawman Leo Demidov who is assigned to investigate a series of gruesome child murders.

The story is based on the real life tale of Ukrainian serial killer Andrei Chikatilo aka the Rostov Ripper who was executed in 1994 for 52 murders.

Richard Price adapted the script.

Ridley Scott was once attached to direct and remains producer.

Production aims to kick off early next year should it get the green light.