Apatow, Stoller speak 'Greek'

Universal buddy comedy stars Hill, Brand

By TATIANA SIEGEL

Stoller

Apatow

"Forgetting Sarah Marshall" helmer Nick Stoller is reteaming with Judd Apatow and Universal Pictures for the comedy "Get Him to the Greek," with Jonah Hill and Russell Brand attached to star.

Stoller has been tapped to write and direct the laffer, which centers on a fresh-out-of-college insurance adjuster (Hill) who is hired to accompany an out-of-control rock star (Brand) from London to a gig at L.A.'s Greek Theater.

Hill and Brand played supporting roles in U's "Sarah Marshall"; Stoller made his feature directing debut on the pic. "During the table read on 'Sarah Marshall,' Jonah and Russell had such a great chemistry," said Stoller, who described "Greek" as a very dirty take on "Almost Famous." "Even though they are such different actors with different styles, I thought there could be a great buddy comedy there."

Stoller is co-writing and will direct the comedy "Five-Year Engagement" for Universal, with Jason Segel co-writing and attached to star. He and Segel are also collaborating on "The Muppet Movie" for Disney. Stoller's writing credits include the forthcoming Jim Carrey starrer "Yes Man."

Hill's upcoming credits include the comedy "This Side of the Truth" alongside Ricky Gervais and Jennifer Garner. He will also lend his voice to DreamWorks' "How to Train Your Dragon."

Brand will next be seen in the Adam Sandler starrer "Bedtime Stories" for Disney.