AceShowbiz -

Noted for his consistency in putting social and political issues into his directorial works, Spike Lee is about to generate a new one in the vein. Variety has learned that the lauded filmmaker is joining forces with Universal Pictures and Imagine Entertainment to develop "L.A. Riots", a drama framed around the racially charged April 1992 riots.

Already had John Ridley on his side to pen the screenplay and Brian Grazer to produce, Lee is determined to have the script done as soon as possible so he can bring it in front of president Donna Langley before business closes for the holidays. If the goal is reached, it is likely for him to work on the project as his next feature before shifting to helm "Inside Man" sequel.

"This isn't about some cavalcade of stars, but rather a truthful and realistic examination of what happened, what the ramifications were and where we are now, in hopes that something like this doesn't happen again," Lee said of the movie.