Here's your dose of quick news bits for Dec. 18, 2008...
• Billy Ray is set to direct the big-screen adaptation of Fritz Leiber Jr.'s horror fantasy novel "Conjure Wife," about a college professor who finds out his good fortune is the result of his wife's magical powers. This marks the fourth time the book has been adapted to the screen. (THR)
• Lucy Gordon is the latest to board Joann Sfar's French movie about the life and fame of poet, songwriter and singer Serge Gainsbourg. Also starring are Eric Elmosnino, Laetitia Casta and Mylene Jampanoi. Gordon's credits include "Spider-Man 3" and "Serendipity. (THR)
• Maggie Q has officialy boarded "King of Fighters," a live-action adaptation of the Japanese video game. Directed by Gordon Chan and starring Sean Faris, Ray Park and Will Yun Lee, the film follows a young man who competes in a fighting tournament. Q will next be seen in "New York, I Love You." (Variety)
• Ari Folman, who recently directed "Waltz With Bashir," is gearing up to develop the big-screen adaptation of sci-fi author Stanislaw Lem's short story "The Futurological Congress." He plans to combine live-action with animation. (THR)