Proving it possible to write a biopic about virtually anybody, John Requa and Glenn Ficarra – the co-writers of the ensemble comedy Crazy Stupid Love -- have boarded Warner Bros.’ planned film about software guru John McAfee, the creator of the first anti-virus computer software.
Thankfully, McAfee’s story is more exciting than it sounds. Variety says the screenwriters will work off of a Wired magazine article titled “John McAfee’s Last Stand.” The 66-year-old British-American computer wizard, according to news reports, had been operating a bizarre operation in Belize, working an alleged meth laboratory (he was raided by local police), and becoming a self-proclaimed spy by passing out malware-infested laptops using up to 23 “operatives” to take down corrupt government and police officials. McAfee reportedly is back in the United States after questioning on the murder of his neighbor, Gregory Viant Faull, in Belize (though McAfee was not a suspect), and seems to have set up shop in Portland.
This is barely scratching the surface of McAfee’s odd story, which is great news for Requa and Ficarra, who’ll write, produce and direct the film through their own banner, Zaftig Films. The challenge, we assume, will be narrowing down the focus of the film to a specific moment in McAfee’s colorful life. Variety notes that he made a fortune through his software programs, and was worth $100 million at his peak. But his brushes with the war and trips through Central and South America on allegedly illegal escapades could make for thrilling narration, if Requa and Ficarra can refine this story. Here’s the original Wired article, which is worth a read. We’ll see what they come up with.
