Greg Berlanti Is Adapting ‘The Gentleman’s Guide To Vice & Virtue’ For HBO Max

Greg Berlanti’s relationship with HBO Max is continuing to grow as the high-profile producer just got a deal to produce a film adaptation of the novel “The Gentlemen’s Guide To Vice and Virtue.” The new film, based on the New York Times bestseller, could be one of four films being developed for the streaming platform.

Berlanti’s take on the novel will be penned by writer Matthey Barry, known for working on the first two seasons of the Netflix series “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.” Deadline reported that Berlanti’s movie is part of his overall deal made with Warner Bros. Television last year. The agreement included TV shows for all platforms under Berlanti Productions.

Written by author Mackenzi Lee, the original YA novel covers the story of Henry Monty Montague, a bisexual British lord who goes on a trip across 18th century Europe with his best friend and secret crush, Percy. As he gets chosen to inherit the family estate, a manhunt ensues when the mischievous noble’s wild decisions catch up with him in twisted ways.

“The Gentlemen’s Guide To Vice and Virtue” book was published in 2017 as part of a series. Lee’s next installment in the series, “The Gentleman’s Guide to Getting Lucky” will hit bookshelves in December while her fourth installment, “The Nobleman’s Guide to Scandal and Shipwrecks” is scheduled for a 2020 release.

Lee is known for her work in both fiction and nonfiction covering topics on sexuality and the role of women in society throughout history. The author’s first book, “This Monstrous Thing,” was a retelling of the Frankenstein story that went viral on Twitter. After growing on social media, the author ended up publishing “Bygone Badass Broads: 52 Forgotten Women Who Changed the World” in 2018.

Along with the film, Berlanti is also developing television content for HBO Max. He is currently expanding on the DC Universe for the streamer with an adaptation of “Strange Adventures” and a show based on Green Lantern. Also in the works is a four-part docuseries on historical moments from the LGBTQ+ movement titled “Equal.”

No date was given regarding the release of “The Gentleman’s Guide To Vice and Virtue.” WarnerMedia will launch HBO Max worldwide in May 2020.