Details On Bret Easton Ellis-Penned L.A. Noir 'The Canyons' Surface As Casting Begins For Summer Shoot

As the Paul Schrader-directed, Bret Easton Ellis-penned "L.A. noir micro budget" film approaches its summer start date, fresh details have been revealed about the story, cast of characters, and release plan. Titled The Canyons, the "psycho-sexual thriller" will center around a circle of young and glamorous but deeply messed-up Angelenos. In other words, exactly what you'd expect from a noir film written by Ellis. More info after the jump.

Back in January, Ellis named porn star James Deen as his "first choice to play Christian or Ryan," roles Ellis said would require Deen to "act and be full-frontal naked banging girls and guys realistically." However, Deen's involvement is far from a sure thing at this point. According to The Playlist, Deen has not spoken with Schrader about the project. The fact that Deen has little mainstream acting experience could prove to be an issue, as the film is reportedly "very much an actor's piece."

Shooting on The Canyons is scheduled for July 9-31. In an effort to keep their vision pure, Ellis, Schrader, and producer Braxton Pope plan to both finance and release the film themselves, Netflix/VOD-style. Check back on The Canyons Facebook page for updates. The film is one of two in the works for Ellis and Schrader; the pair are also collaborating on Bait, about a young man who takes revenge on the wealthy by throwing them into shark-infested waters.