The Sopranos's star James Gandolfini is developing Big Dead Place, a drama based on Nicholas Johnson's memoir about his work in the U.S. Antarctic Program.

The story follows Nicholas Johnson who went to work for the U.S. Antarctic Program (devoted to scientific research and education in support of the national interest in the Antarctic), he figured he'd find adventure, beauty, penguins and lofty-minded scientists. Instead, he found boredom, alcohol and bureaucracy. As a dishwasher and garbage man at McMurdo Station, Johnson quickly shed his illusions about Antarctica.

Writer Peter Gould is on board to write and help produce the project. James Gandolfini could possibly star as well.

Big Dead Place is still in development. No details on cast or production date have been set.