DreamWorks has preemptively shelled out mid-six figures for C.O.D. ("Cash on Delivery") from newcomer Lars Jacobson.

Barry Josephson is producing through Josephson Entertainment along with Neal Flaherty and his new Royal Prospect banner.

About a year ago, Georgia-based Jacobson sent a script sample to Flaherty. That one didn't fly, but the two conjured up a new concept and worked on it long-distance via phone and e-mail.

The story line centers on a Manhattan bike messenger who becomes America's most wanted man when he's forced to deliver three bombs under threat of his family receiving one. He must avoid capture by the authorities while trying to deliver the bombs with an entire nation looking for him.