Patricia Cornwell Goes To The Movies

On July 20, 2009 Variety reported that two telepics based on Patricia Cornwell's crime novels, "At Risk" and "The Front," will air as Lifetime originals. These novels feature Investigator Winston Garano and his boss D.A. Monique Lamont.

Slated to star in these productions are Daniel Sunjata (Garano), Andie MacDowell (Lamont), Diahann Carroll (Garano's grandmother), Annabeth Gish (Garano's partner), and Ashley Williams (Garano's love interest).

Marking the first time Ms. Cornwell's novels will hit the screen, the announcement comes on the heels of the April 21st report that Twentieth Century Fox has acquired the rights to all 16 Kay Scarpetta novels. Slated to play the good-looking, intelligent, strong-willed-yet-vulnerable and sophisticated Scarpetta is superstar actress and poster girl Angelina Jolie.

The first movie, a thriller, will not be tied to a specific novel but will feature Dr. Scarpetta in her role as Medical Examiner.

The choice of Jolie has sparked an internet debate over her suitability for the role. Some have cited Jodie Foster as a better choice. Let's face it, they're both Oscar winners and great actors, but Angelina is more of a box office draw and, in the end, it all comes down to the money. BTW, more than one source reports that several years ago Foster was approached by Cornwell in regards to the Scarpetta role but Foster declined.