Lakeshore Entertainment and Hopscotch Features are moving forward on actioner “The Sword” with David Hayter on board to write the adapt the script from the graphic novel by Jonathan and Joshua Luna (the Luna Brothers).

Producers are Lakeshore’s Tom Rosenberg and Gary Lucchesi, along with Skip Williamson, and Hopscotch’s Andrew Mason. Hopscotch’s Troy Lum is executive producing.

Production is slated to start early next year. International sales are being handled by Lakeshore and Sierra/Affinity.

Lakeshore acquired movie rights to “The Sword” in February with Lakeshore touting the deal as a move to follow up the success of its “Underworld” franchise.

SEE ALSO: Lakeshore grabs ‘Sword’

The story follows a young paraplegic who escapes after her family is brutally murdered by a mysterious trio. She then discovers a sword that restores her ability to walk, grants her physical powers and begins a journey of retribution.

The first of the graphic novels was titled “The Sword: Fire.” It was followed by “The Sword: Water,” “The Sword: Earth” and “The Sword: Air.”

The four “Underworld” titles have grossed about $450 million in worldwide box office, including $160 million for last year’s “Underworld: Awakening.”

Lakeshore and Hopscotch previously collaborated on the upcoming “I, Frankenstein,” which will be released in January 2014.

Hayter’s credits include “Watchmen” and “X-Men.”

Hayter is represented by UTA and attorney David Feldman, while the Luna Brothers — as well as the graphic novel rights to “The Sword”  — are represented by CAA.