The project is set up at Rhino Films, which said it will embrace the spirit of early-'60s drive-in fare.

"Those (films) had an audacious spirit you rarely see anymore," said Tim Sullivan, who will write the script with Chris Kobin. "The time is right to add a new female action-horror icon to today's pop culture."

Added Rhino Films chief Stephen Nemeth: "There is a rock band in the story that we will create, record and actually anticipate taking out on the road, along with the (sideshow) itself."

Rhino is gearing up production on its biopic of Darby Crash, the late lead singer of '70s punk band the Germs, starring Shane West.

Sullivan and Kobin recently penned another indie horror remake, "2001 Maniacs," starring Robert Englund, which is currently in postproduction. Sullivan, who directed "Maniacs," is circling helming duties on "Freak."

Additionally, Sullivan penned the upcoming indie feature "Riders on the Storm," being directed by Ray Manzarek, former keyboardist with the Doors.

Reuters/Hollywood Reporter

(thanks, FER)