Despite its successful graphic novel run, Lunch Lady’s premise is so absurd that one would be forgiven for thinking it was made on a dare. Written by Jarret Krosoczka, the story of a mild-mannered lunch lady who covertly battles evil as a “spatula-wielding crime fighter” has led to ten books published between 2009 to 2013. With that much content, it makes sense for Hollywood to turn Lunch Lady into a potentially successful franchise, albeit with a ridiculous plot.
However, according to Deadline, the film’s development has seen a shift in both production company and writing. Originally being produced by Universal Studios and starring Amy Poehler, Lunch Lady has since been acquired by Sony Pictures with Fred Wolf as the lead writer. Wolf, a former SNL writer, has primarily focused on writing comedy films featuring his SNL co-workers, such as Tommy Boy starring Chris Farley and David Spade. The film has been described as a PG-13 action-comedy and superhero film, although Poehler has stepped down from her role as the protagonist.
No further details have been given on Lunch Lady’s production. Wolf is currently writing and directing the upcoming comedy film Drunk Parents, starring Salma Hayek and Alec Baldwin.