Neil Jordan to adapt 'Skippy' book

LONDON, Aug. 2 (UPI) -- Irish filmmaker Neil Jordan has been tapped to direct the big-screen adaptation of Paul Murray's Dublin-set novel "Skippy Dies," the movie's producers said.

The book is a nominee for this year's Man Booker Prize.

Jordan's films include "The Crying Game," "Michael Collins," "Interview with the Vampire," "Breakfast on Pluto" and "Ondine."

The BBC said it confirmed with Number 9 Films Jordan's hiring to helm "Skippy," the story of the title character and his roommate, an overweight genius, at an expensive Catholic boarding school.

It is unclear when the comedy will begin production, the BBC said.