Ava DuVernay Signs First Look Deal With Harpo Films
Ava DuVernay has been taking Hollywood by storm. Not only because she creates amazing work but because she’s very intentional about the direction she goes when it comes to the projects and partnerships she dedicates herself too. DuVernay has released great projects like Queen Sugar and Middle of Nowhere but also made headlines after turning down the opportunity to direct Marvel’s Black Panther due to creative differences. Ryan Coogler was eventually tapped to direct but her decision to walk away from such a lucrative opportunity is just one example of what makes Ava a shining example of the type of creators that will dominate Hollywood in the near future.
Now, Ava is taking another intentional step by signing a first look film and television deal with Oprah Winfrey’s production company Harpo Films. This deal will expand the two’s collaborative efforts even further and the first project to come from this deal will be DuVernay’s upcoming scripted series about the Central Park Five that will debut on Netflix. Here’s what DuVernay had to say about the collaboration:
“There is fresh air and room to roam. There is an artist-driven atmosphere and an intention to share stories that nourish. There is a spirit of inclusivity and imagination moving at all times. This is the new era of OWN. I’m thrilled to continue to collaborate with Ms. Winfrey as we expand the scope of our storytelling. And I feel fortunate to be a small part of this network at such a wonderful time in its evolution.”
Oprah Winfrey and Ava DuVernay accepting an award for Outstanding Motion Picture at the NAACP Image Awards (Photo Courtesy of UPI.com)
Oprah also gave a statement on working with Ava:
“I’m so proud of Ava and her ability as a filmmaker to challenge the status quo and push for inclusiveness on screen and behind the camera. I love, love, love the work we have been able to create so far. I am looking forward to developing many more meaningful projects together.”
Winfrey can be seen in the recently released trailer for Disney’s A Wrinkle In Time which was directed by DuVernay and based on the best selling novel. Are you excited to see what’s next for this dynamic duo? Let us know in the comments below.
SOURCE: Entertainment Weekly
A Wrinkle In Time clocks into theaters on March 9, 2018. Queen Sugar airs on Wednesday nights at 10pm on the OWN network.
