Paramount Vantage has optioned the Sudhir Venkatesh-penned book "Gang Leader for a Day" and set Craig Brewer ("Hustle and Flow") to direct reports Variety.

"Sopranos" scribe Michael Caleo will adapt the story of Columbia University professor Venkatesh, who spent years chronicling a crack-dealing gang in Chicago for a research project.

He befriended the Black Kings and their leader, and was invited to observe them close up. Venkatesh found a close-knit group whose corporate culture was much like that of a successful legitimate business.

Venkatesh was given the job of calling the shots of the criminal enterprise for a day. His adventure was first chronicled in the book "Freakonomics" which is being turned into a multi-directed documentary.