Brett Ratner to direct 'Youngblood' adaptation

Brett Ratner is set to direct the big-screen adaptation of Rob Liefeld's graphic novel "Youngblood" for Reliance Big Entertainment.

Variety reports Reliance will develop the project with Ratner's Rat Entertainment and Julia Roberts' Red Om Films.

The story follows a team of superheroes sanctioned and overseen by the U.S. government.

In an interview with the trade, Ratner said "Youngblood" is one of only a few great graphic novels with "tentpole potential."

Ratner most recently directed "Rush Hour 3." He has several projects coming up, including "New York, I Love You," "God of War" and "Beverly Hills Cop 4."

In related news, Reliance has also acquired the rights to "Fly Wires," a French graphic novel Sylvain may direct. The project will be renamed "Infinity."