Cate Blanchett, Josh Brolin, Nicole Kidman eyed for auto industry drama, 'Bloody Highways'

Back in 2000, a landmark settlement was made in the lawsuit against Ford and Firestone over the extreme number of rollover cases involving Ford SUVs traveling on Firestone tires. The case drew national attention, as both companies were accused of trying to cover up the defects that led to numerous deaths and injuries, the most high profile was that Donna Bailey, a 51 year old woman who is now completely paralyzed. The story of that case is now being brought to the big screen, and the producers have some high hopes for who will be a part of it.

Based on Adam Penneberg's book, Tragic Indifference, the film will be an Erin Brockovich-style story of how attorney Tab Turner fought for the victims of Ford and Firestone's screw-ups. Originally, Warner Brothers had the film with Michael Douglas set for the lead role of Turner. Now in turnaround, Douglas's production company still wants to see the movie made, but with Josh Brolin starring. They also have their eyes set on Cate Blanchett, Laura Linney, and Nicole Kidman in the Bailey role. Jonathan Demme(Rachel Getting Married) is the top contender to direct, with Bloody Highways likely to be the film's final title.

Basically this is a "wishlist" piece, so none of these players may end up in the movie at all. Still, this is a great story, and Turner is an interesting figure who continues to fight for the rights of those screwed by big institutions. Here's hoping we hear more about this film soon, and that it gets the backing and star power it'll need to continue. [Showbiz411]