Paul Haggis and his producing partner Michael Nozik have just announced the formation of HWY61 Films. According to Variety, the deal for HWY61 also attaches the new production house to United Artists, who recently made a deal with the WGA, allowing UA productions to continue throughout the strike.

The first project for HWY61 might possibly be Ranger's Apprentice, which Haggis wrote as a potential piece to direct. Ranger's Apprentice is based on the fantasy series from author John Flanagan, which follows the adventures of an orphan named Will who becomes an apprentice ranger and fights to keep the mythical land of Araluen free from villains, invaders and other forces of evil.

Haggis most recently directed the acclaimed In the Valley of Elah.

In the Valley of Elah was released September 14th, 2007 and stars Tommy Lee Jones, Charlize Theron, Jason Patric, Susan Sarandon, James Franco, Barry Corbin, Josh Brolin, Frances Fisher. The film is directed by Paul Haggis.