It's been a good long while since we've heard anything from NBC's big-budget pirate drama, 'Crossbones,' which cast John Malkovich in a leading role that was originally eyed for 'House' veteran Hugh Laurie. Now, as 'Crossbones' gears up production for a potential midseason debut, 'Twilight' and 'Hannibal' director David Slade has officially boarded the ship to steer as director.

News of Slade's directing comes to us from Deadline, noting that the 'Twilight Saga: Eclipse' helmer has also helmed the pilot episode of NBC's 'Hannibal,' and will suit up for Syfy's forthcoming Ron Moore drama, 'Helix,' as well. Slade's career also includes everything from 'Breaking Bad' to the proposed 'Daredevil' reboot, so 'Crossbones' should be in good hands.

Based on Colin Woodard’s book, ‘The Republic of Pirates,’ and scripted by ‘Luther’ creator Neil Cross, 'Crossbones' takes place in the “golden age of piracy” and would see Captain Edward "Blackbeard" Teach (Malkovich) at the height of his power, ruling over a nation of criminals. Take a look at NBC’s official summation below:

It’s 1715 on the Bahamian island of New Providence, the first functioning democracy in the Americas, where the diabolical pirate Edward Teach, aka Blackbeard, reigns over a rogue nation of thieves, outlaws and miscreant sailors. Part shantytown, part marauder’s paradise, this is a place like no other on earth – and a mounting threat to international commerce.

To gain control of this fearsome society, Tom Lowe, a highly skilled undercover assassin, is sent to the pirates’ haven to take down the brilliant and charismatic Blackbeard. But the closer Lowe gets, the more he finds that his quest is not so simple. Lowe can’t help but admire the political ideals of Blackbeard, whose thirst for knowledge knows no bounds – and no law. But Lowe is not the only danger to Blackbeard’s rule. He is a man with many villainous rivals and one great weakness – a passionately driven woman whom he cannot deny.

Slade's appointment to 'Crossbones' director will hopefully mean more casting and production news to come, so stay tuned! In the meantime, tell us in the comments if you're interested to see NBC take on pirates with 'Crossbones'!

More From 95.7 KEZJ