As a gamer who has witnessed the transformation of stories from stage to screen, I can hardly contain my excitement for “The Piano Lesson.” Being a fan of both theater and film adaptations, I am particularly intrigued by the pedigree this production carries – with Denzel Washington’s involvement in bringing August Wilson’s work to life on the big screen.
Corey Hawkins launched his acting journey on off-Broadway stages, eventually landing roles as a recurring character on various television shows. He is widely recognized for portraying Heath in the long-running series “The Walking Dead.” Beyond this, he has made notable appearances in films such as “Straight Outta Compton,” “24: Legacy,” “Kong: Skull Island,” and “BlacKkKlansman.” Upcoming, Hawkins will be seen in the Netflix film “The Piano Lesson.”
The film titled “The Piano Lesson” is set to make its debut in direction by Malcolm Washington, marking his first foray into feature filmmaking. He collaborated with Virgil Williams on the screenplay, which was inspired by August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name from 1987. The movie will have its premiere at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival on September 10, 2024. It will hit theaters on November 8 before streaming on Netflix on November 22.
Denzel Washington took on the role of producer for “The Piano Lesson” and starred, directed, and produced “Fences” (2016), another film adaptation by August Wilson, alongside Viola Davis. His performance in this movie earned him an Oscar nomination. Additionally, he served as a producer for George C. Wolfe’s film version of another Wilson adaptation, “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.”
During a conversation at the American Black Film Festival in Miami, Denzel Washington expressed his thoughts about Wilson’s artistic endeavors.
The estate of August Wilson came to me and said, ‘We would like to put August Wilson’s plays in your hands for you to produce and direct for film,’ I said, ‘I’m just the guy for the job.’ We’ve done three good ones so far.
In his director’s statement, Malcolm Washington expressed thoughts about the movie and its enduring impact, stating, “Transforming a renowned American novel into a film is both daunting and an honorable responsibility.” You can read the full statement here.
The narrative revolves around the Charles clan and a cherished artifact, a piano intricately carved by a forebear who was once a slave. This tale unfolds against the backdrop of Pittsburgh following the Great Depression. The film traces the daily life within the Doaker Charles residence.
The Piano Lesson trailer
The Piano Lesson cast
In the movie, both Samuel L. Jackson and John David Washington were not only the lead actors but had previously performed together in a recent revival of the stage production as well.
- Samuel L. Jackson – Doaker Charles
- John David Washington – Boy Willie Charles
- Ray Fisher – Lymon
- Michael Potts – Wining Boy Charles
- Erykah Badu – Lucille
- Skylar Aleece Smith – Maretha Charles
- Danielle Deadwyler – Berniece Charles
- Corey Hawkins – Avery Brown
Grammy Award-Winning singer/songwriter Erykah Badu makes a musical cameo in the film.
Don’t miss The Piano Lesson on Netflix beginning November 22.
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2024-08-28 16:39