Catherine Hardwicke is set to direct an adaptation of the critically acclaimed YA novel Stargirl.
Not to be confused with the DC superhero of the same name, Stargirl follows the story of Susan, an eccentric teenage girl whose disregard for convention brings her great initial popularity, then near-total social rejection. Jerry Spinelli’s 2002 book was praised for its message of nonconformity and received several prestigious awards, including from the Parents Choice Foundation and the American Library Association, and was named a Publishers Weekly book of the year.
Variety says Hardwicke was quick to sign on after reading producer Kristin Hahn’s adaptation and that Hahn was delighted by the directing choice.
“I can’t imagine anyone more uniquely equipped to bring this story to life than Catherine,” she said.
Hardwicke is renowned for her coming-of-age dramas, which include Twilight, Red Riding Hood and Thirteen. She has just finished production on the Drew Barrymore romantic comedy Miss You Already.
The film will be produced by Hahn, Gotham Group and BCDF Pictures. An autumn 2015 production start date is planned.