After working for years, Dreamworks has finally acquired the life rights to the late Martin Luther King jr. This marks a victory for Dreamworks founder Steven Spielberg who has been working on the rights for years. He along with industry vet Suzanne DePasse, will produce the film.

Dexter King, the executor of his fathers estate, finally agreed to what will be the first authorized film about the slain civil rights leader. Under the terms of the agreement, Dreamworks will have access to all of Kings personal writings as well as family photos and other previously unpublished works. 

Though Spielberg is not attached as the director, there have been rumors that he’s looking for an African-American filmkaer to helm the project. That rumored shortlist is aid to include George Tillman (Soulfood, Notorious), Charles Stone (Paid In Full) and Tim Story (Barbershop, Fantastic Four). 

As of yet there is no official script but the project is already looking towards a winter 2010 release.