Steven Spielberg is set to produce a feature film adaptation of Colin BroderickS novel, “Once in Hells Kitchen,” a gritty portrayal of life in New York City’s Westies gang during the 1970s and 80s. Production is slated to begin in 2026.
The project brings Broderick‘s semi-autobiographical story to the big screen, detailing a young boy’s coming-of-age amidst the violence and complex relationships within the Hells Kitchen neighborhood. The film aims to capture the raw humanity of the era and the strong community bonds forged within a turbulent environment. This adaptation arrives as interest in true crime and past dramas continues to surge, offering a nuanced look at a previously underrepresented chapter of New York City history.
Broderick’s novel centers on the experiences of Danny, a young boy navigating a world dominated by the Westies, a notorious irish-American organized crime group. Spielberg emphasized the novel’s strength in portraying authentic human connections. “What Colin’s done is he’s captured the humanity of the neighborhood-it’s such a strong ensemble,character-driven piece,” Spielberg stated.
The director plans a meticulous approach to developing the film’s relationships. “I’m looking forward to finding all of those relationships that Danny has with everybody in the story-[because] it’s about the people, it’s about the relationships. We’re not going to take any shortcuts,” Spielberg added. Phil O’Brien provided the photograph accompanying the proclamation.
