SAVING PRIVATE RYAN Writer Robert Rodat Developing New War Film SEMPER FI

Robert Rodat, the screenwriter of the of Saving Private Ryan, is currently developing a new film titled Semper Fi, which tells the true story of Marine Maj. Thomas Schueman and his extraordinary Afghan interpreter Zainulla Zaki.

It’s explained that story is set during the fierce fighting in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province, when Schueman and Zaki “formed an unbreakable brotherhood that transcended the differences in their cultures and ethnicities. After Schueman’s return to the U.S. he tried, with no success, to help Zaki and his family get out of Afghanistan. This summer, as the U.S. pulled out of Afghanistan, Zaki and his family were targeted for execution by the Taliban due to his involvement with U.S. Forces. Schueman’s devotion to his comrade and his struggle to save him, his wife and four children led to a harrowing escape and a daring rescue at Kabul’s airport.”

Rodat is writing the screenplay, which is being financed by Michael and Carole Marks, who will serve as executive producers. Rodat’s other writing credits include The Patriot, Fly Away Home, The Command aka Kursk, The Catcher Was a Spy, Tall Tale, The Comrades of Summer, The Ripper, and 36 Hours to Die. He received a co-story credit on Thor: The Dark World. He also created the TNT television series Falling Skies.

Semper Fi sounds like quite the harrowing true story, and it should make for a great film if it makes it past the script stage.

Source: Deadline