Jim Jacks will produce the supernatural action thriller “Mortis Rex,” which marks the directorial debut of “Hellboy” writer Peter Briggs.
Jacks, whose recent credits include the “Mummy” franchise for Universal Pictures, will produce via his Frelaine Prods. banner. Stuart Pollok, Matthew Dench and Marisa Kagan are also producing.

Dominic Ianno, who played a key role in securing financing for “Mortis Rex,” is exec producing with London-based film finance and international sales company Intandem Films. The movie has already been presold in a number of territories including Russia, the Middle East, Portugal, Greece and Benelux.

Set in 122 AD, story centers on a disgraced Roman war hero who is given a last opportunity to redeem his reputation when sent to a Roman garrison beset by a spate of brutal and unexplained killings.

“I’ve always been interested in Roman history in general and the dark myths surrounding the building of Hadrian’s Wall in particular,” Jacks said. “Mortis Rex’s uniquely original, blood chilling telling of the legend of the Lost Legion with a monster movie twist has the makings of a truly exciting and commercial movie that is sure to spark excitement from global audiences.”

Intandem Films director Andrew Brown said Jack’s involvement was “proof positive” of the project’s global appeal. He added: “Peter Briggs is an exceptional craftsman who has created an amazing, terrifying world based on true fact and we are excited that he will direct a superb hi-end supernatural live-action film that will have worldwide appeal.”

Filming is slated to begin in the spring on location in Italy, Eastern Europe and the U.K.