Graphic novel publisher Zenescope Entertainment, the company known for rebranding well-known titles with a sinister edge (Grimm Fairy Tales, Return To Wonderland) has teamed up with Persistent Entertainment (PASSENGERS, SOUTHLAND TALES, NAILED) and Pantry Films (FELON) to produce the film adaptation of Zenescope’s hit graphic novel entitled THE PIPER.

The cinematic version of the Pied Piper of Hamelin will introduce a darker version of the fabled tale to a new generation of modern day horror fans through the eyes of a much bullied high school band student who unintentionally channels the spirit of the mysterious Piper only to realize the terrifying consequences of his actions are well beyond his control.

Persistent Entertainment, headed by Matthew Rhodes, has produced over 20 films in its 10-years, including 2006’s Palme d’Or nominee, SOUTHLAND TALES (Sony), PASSENGERS (Mandate/Sony) starring Anne Hathaway, and the upcoming NAILED, starring Jessica Biel and Jake Gyllenhaal. The Piper was brought in by Persistent exec Aaron Cruze who will head up development of the project.

Pantry Films and producer Dan Keston specialize in producing and line producing films for both independents and studios and function as a one-stop shop for overseeing projects from inception to delivery. Dan recently wrapped PETE SMALLS IS DEAD starring Peter Dinklage, Tim Roth, and Steve Buscemi and completed post on NORMAN starring Academy Award nominee Richard Jenkins.

Joe Brusha and Ralph Tedesco, who are also attached to executive produce film along with Dave Brown of Sleeping Giant Entertainment, founded Zenescope in 2005 and have quickly gained much notoriety and critical acclaim in the industry for publishing some of the best-selling horror and thriller comics on shelves today.