Universal Takes Over 39 Clues Film

Universal Pictures is in negotiations to pick up the film adaptation of the ten-book adventure franchise 39 Clues out of turnaround from DreamWorks says Heat Vision.

Clues is a fully integrated multi-media adventure that spans across 10 books, 355 collectible cards, and an online game where kids can uncover information, play skill based games and collect cards to compete for prizes.

The story revolves around the Cahills - the most powerful family the world has ever known - the source of whose power is a mystery that can only be unraveled by assembling 39 clues hidden around the world throughout history.

The first book in the series, "Maze Of Bones" is written by Rick Riordan while the adapted script has been written by Jeff Nathanson, who wrote Rush Hour 2 and Rush Hour 3 and most recently Tower Heist for Brett Ratner. And then news came that Ratner was attached to direct this.

This film been around since the 2008 launch of the property and was set up for Steven Spielberg, to direct at the time. He and the studio have both moved on.

At last report--Shawn Levy ("Night at the Museum") was making moves to direct--no word if Universal's deal will include him or Nathanson's draft.

Deborah Forte is attached to produce the film.