Cinemax greenlights 'Da Brick' pilot

Lee RidleyHBO is incorporated in the ring with "Da Brick."Pay cabler is stated to possess because of the greenlight for any pilot loosely inspired by Mike Tyson's early years. John Ridley composed the script for Doug Ellin's Cinemax-based production banner. Spike Lee is aboard to direct and professional produce with Tyson, Ridley and Ellin and Ellin's creating partner, Jim Lefkowitz.The project came into being after Tyson did a guest shot this past year on Ellin's "Entourage" (Daily Variety, June 22)."He stated in my experience, 'Why not do with my existence that which you did with Mark (Wahlberg's) existence" with "Entourage," Ellin told Variety in June.Tyson's wife, Lakiha Tyson, will co-professional produce together with Azim Spicer.Cinemax rejected comment late Tuesday. Contact Cynthia Littleton at cynthia.littleton@variety.com