'Emancipation': Will Smith To Star In Film On Runaway Enslaved Person

Will Smith has been attached to the upcoming film, Emancipation, which is set to directed by Antoine Fuqua.

The film was written by William N. Collage and centers on a true story of Peter, “a runaway slave forced to outwit cold-blooded hunters and the punishing Louisiana swamp on a tortuous journey to the Union Army and his only chance at freedom.’

According to Variety, the film is expected to begin production in early 2021.

Smith will produce the film through his Westbrook Studios, alongside Smith, James Lassiter. McFarland Entertainment’s Joey McFarland and Escape Artists’ Todd Black will also produce. Fuqua will executive produce through his Fuqua Films, along with Cliff Roberts. CAA Media Finance arranged the film’s financing and is repping the U.S. rights. The film will be introduced to buyers at this year’s Cannes Market, which is virtual this year.

Smith was in production on his upcoming film, King Richard, opposite Saniyya Sidney, Demi Singleton and Aunjanue Ellis, before Hollywood shut down. It has now been delayed for a year.

Photo: Getty