'Salinger' documentary features celebrity commentary A new documentary about the "Catcher in the Rye" author explores his secrets and genius. J.D. Salinger, author of the novel "Catcher in the Rye" with fame in pop culture and seventh grade classrooms worldwide, will be the subject of a documentary exposing his personal life and the prying into the reasons behind the abrupt end of his writing career. Featuring commentary by Martin Sheen, John Cusack, Edward Norton and Danny DeVito, the film will explore the dark and deeply personal side of the beloved, mysterious writer. Some have dubbed Salinger as the Howard Hughes of 20th century fiction, according to the Los Angeles Times. A brilliant man hiding from the public, the author caused fans to wonder if he was writing all along and if he would ever publish another novel. The Weinstein Company acquired the rights to the documentary that will be directed by Shane Salerno. Trailer below: