Universal Pictures has acquired the rights to Need to Know, a spy thriller novel (that has yet to be published) about a woman who works as a CIA analyst. Oscar winner Charlize Theron is attached to star in the film, as well as produce. Deadline was the first to report this story.

While searching for a Russian sleeper cell, a CIA analyst (Theron) uncovers information that makes her a target, which endangers her family and friends. Author Karen Cleveland has previously served as a CIA analyst, making her unpublished fictional novel a much desired asset, and leading to a bidding war between major studios last week.

Theron will produce on behalf of her Denver & Delilah Films production company. She can be seen later this year in The Fate of the Furious, as well as Cold War spy thriller Atomic Blonde (formerly called The Coldest City) alongside James McAvoy and John Goodman.