‘Reacher’ star Alan Ritchson, Adam Shankman team up for Amazon’s ‘The Man with the Bag’

Christmas has come early for Alan Ritchson.

The star of Reach is meant to act The man with the bag, a family holiday comedy that Adam Shankman will direct for Amazon Studios. Alan Rice (Stuck in the middle) wrote the script for the feature project which is under development.

The man with the bagThe plot is set in motion when Santa’s magical bag of presents is stolen, forcing him to consult his naughty list for help. He enlists seasoned Vance (Ritchson), a handsome thief fresh out of prison who’s trying to go straight, as he attempts to have a normal crime-free Christmas with his family. The thief, with the help of his daughter and a group of misfit elves, must pull off the biggest heist of his life to save Christmas.

In addition to starring, Ritchson will also produce. Lawrence Grey, Ben Everard, Reg Tigerman and Dan Spilo also produce.

Ritchson was a regular on the DC series Titans but he broke through with Reach, the Amazon series based on the books by Lee Child. The series was a roaring success for the company, becoming the first Prime Video series to reach #1 on the Nielsen weekly streaming charts. It also became one of Prime Video’s most captivating original series ever, as well as among the top five most-watched series in the United States and worldwide. He received a quick pick up in the second season and the actor signed a three-film acting deal. The man with the bag falls under this agreement.

Shankman is directing a veteran known for his light comedic touch, with a resume that ranges from The wedding planner AND Tear down the house TO Hairspray AND Rock of the ages. He recently directed last year’s Disney+ movie Disenchanted played by Amy Adams.

Ritchson, who can currently be seen on the big screen in Fast Xis represented by WME, Industry Entertainment and Hansen Jacobson.

Shankman is represented by UTA and Sloane Offer, while Rice is represented by A3 Agency, Tigerman Management and Jackoway Tyerman.