Ella McCay

James L. Brooks, the Oscar-winning writer and director known for his emotive storytelling, is returning to the director's chair after a 13-year hiatus with a new film project titled "Ella McCkay." The film is moving towards production with 20th Century Studios expressing pride in backing Brooks. A stellar cast is in negotiations to join the film, including Emma Mackey, Jamie Lee Curtis, Woody Harrelson, Ayo Edibiri, Albert Brooks, Kumail Nanjiani, and Spike Fearn. Brooks, who has not directed since the 2010 comedy "How Do You Know," remains active as a producer, notably for the recent adaptation of Judy Blume's "Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret," which has received critical acclaim and a Gotham nomination for star Rachel McAdams. Brooks will produce "Ella McCkay" alongside Julie Ansell and Richard Sakai under the Gracie Films banner, with Seth Meier serving as executive producer.