Brett Ratner to Replace Spielberg at Helm of Kids Adventure Adaptation The 39 Clues

When Steven Spielberg gets too busy to direct a film, which director pops into mind first to replace him? Altogether now: Brett Ratner! Deadline reports that Ratner will assume the helm of a live-action adaptation of The 39 Clues, a series of adventure books/online games/collectible cards about kids from the most influential family in history competing against rival clans in a globe-trotting scavenger hunt for world domination. Spielberg will stay on to produce with Scholastic's Deborah Forte and screenwriter Jeff Nathanson (Rush Hour, Catch Me If You Can, Tower Heist). [Deadline]