'Parker' parks Paymer, Henry

By VARIETY STAFF

David Paymer and Gregg Henry have joined the cast of the Mel Gibson vehicle, "Parker," a film about dishonor among thieves being produced by Gibson's Icon Prods. with Paramount. Pic was written by Brian Helgeland ("Conspiracy Theory," "Lethal Weapon 4"), who will also make his helming debut.

Shooting is set to start Sept. 17 in Chicago. Paramount will distribute the film domestically and Warners has it for international.

The pic is based on "The Hunter," a novel by Richard Stark. The book also inspired the 1967 pic "Point Blank," which starred Lee Marvin and Angie Dickinson, and was directed by John Boorman.

"Parker," about a ring of professional criminals, follows the attempts by Gibson's character to track down his wife and former henchman after the pair betray him and run off together. The character of Gibson's wife has not yet been cast.

"Parker" production credits were not clear, though Gibson's partner Bruce Davey might hold a producing or exec producing credit.

James Coburn and William Devane have also signed on for smaller roles. Paymer was a supporting actor Oscar nominee for "Mr. Saturday Night." Henry's credits include the pic "Body Double" and TV's "Robin Cook's Terminal."

Gibson's next project will be "Lethal Weapon 4," where he'll partner again with Danny Glover. Richard Donner will direct the new installment of the franchise.

Gibson is repped by ICM's Ed Limato.