Disney Climb 'Ladder 49' With Jay Russell

Jay Russell ("Domestic Disturbance") is developing and is in negotiations to direct "Ladder 49" for Disney, reports Variety.

Pic, penned by Lewis Colick, is being produced by Casey Silver, who is also teaming with Disney on "Hidalgo."

"Ladder 49" is the story of a veteran firefighter who, while trapped in what could be the fire that will kill him, looks back over his professional life, his heroic career and his family life.

Pic is expected to start production next year.