Jackson lands production deal

Movie star Samuel L Jackson is stepping behind the camera to become a big-shot Hollywood producer.

The actor has signed a two-year deal with New Line Cinema to develop film projects for the studio.

Jackson - who recently starred in New Line movie Snakes on a Plane - says: "I have made four movies with New Line so far, and they have all been immensely positive experiences for me."

The actor will star in some of his productions and remain behind the camera for others.

The 57-year-old is preparing to set up an office in Los Angeles and hire staff for his as-yet-untitled company.

Jackson's deal follows a similar one signed by Matthew McConaughey and his company JK Livin Productions earlier this year.