'Sideways' director to make 'Descendants'

Sideways helmer Alexander Payne has been lined up for an adaptation of The Descendants.

Based on Kaui Hart Hemmings's novel of the same title, it tells the story of a wealthy Hawaiian dad called Matt, who embarks on a mission after his wife enters a coma. The dark comedy follows Matt as he takes his daughters Alex and Scottie on a search for his wife's other lover.

Payne will begin shooting the project in Hawaii in 2010, according to Variety.

The project will be the director's first feature since 2004 Oscar-winner Sideways. He is also working on social satire Downsizing, which will see him reteam with Paul Giamatti and also counts Meryl Streep, Sacha Baron Cohen and Reese Witherspoon among its cast.