Chris Rock to pen 'High & Low'

Chris Rock has signed on to pen High And Low, according to Empire Online.

The comedian and actor will rewrite David Mamet's version of Akira Kurosawa's 1963 film based on Evan Hunter's novel.

The plot follows an executive named Kingo Gondo who agrees to pay a hefty ransom after finding out that his son has been kidnapped. When Gondo learns that the criminal mistakenly took his chauffeur's son, he contemplates either saving the boy or using the money.

Mike Nichols is slated to direct the film, which is reportedly named King's Ransom after Hunter's book.

Rock has previously adapted and directed I Think I Love My Wife and recently acquired the rights to La Premiere Etoile, also known as The First Star.