Los Angeles, Apr 11 (IANS): Filmmaker Ron Howard will direct and produce the contemporary economic drama film "Hillbilly Elegy", based on author J.D. Vances bestselling memoir.

Vance's book recaps growing up in the Rust Belt and the everyday struggles of the US' white working class as they navigate through drug addiction, and social and economic challenges, reports variety.com.

Supported by his grandmother, Vance developed a deep appreciation for education that laid the foundation for him to rise out of poverty and its cultural restraints.

"‘Hillbilly Elegy' is a powerful, true coming-of-age memoir by JD Vance," said Erica Huggins, President of Imagine Entertainment.

"Through the lens of a colourful, chaotic family, and with remarkable compassion and self-awareness, JD has been able to look back on his own upbringing as a ‘hillbilly' to illuminate the plight of America's white working class, speaking directly to the turmoil of our current political climate," Huggins added.