Ridley Scott to direct 'Vatican' pilot for Showtime

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LOS ANGELES, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- British filmmaker Ridley Scott is to direct "The Vatican," his first television pilot, the U.S. cable network Showtime announced.

The network described the project as "a provocative contemporary genre thriller about spirituality, power and politics -- set against the modern-day political machinations within the Catholic church."

"The series will explore the relationships and rivalries as well as the mysteries and miracles behind one of the world's most hidden institutions," the synopsis said.

"Quiz Show," "Donnie Brasco" and "House M.D." screenwriter Paul Attanasio penned the pilot's hour-long script.

Scott's film credits include "Gladiator," "Prometheus," "Blade Runner," "Black Hawk Down" and "The Good Wife."

"The Vatican" is to begin production in 2013.

Attanasio, Scott, and David Zucker will serve as executive producers.

No casting has yet been announced.