A film adaptation of “Prima Facie,” the smash-hit one-woman stage play starring Cynthia Erivo in the role that earned Jodie Comer both Tony and Olivier awards, will launch at the Cannes Film Market.
Embankment is handling international sales on the project, which was first announced by Variety in 2023. UTA Independent Film Group and CAA Media Finance will co-represent for the U.S.
BAFTA winner and Emmy nominee Susanna White (“Woman Walks Ahead,” “Star Wars: Andor”) will direct, with Australian playwright Suzie Miller having adapted her own critically-acclaimed stage play for the screen.
“Prima Facie,” which translates to “at first sight,” tells the propulsive story of ambitious and confident defense attorney Tessa. From working class roots, the rising star in the high-powered London legal system skillfully defends her clients — including those accused of sexual assault. But after she is raped by a colleague, she discovers that the law does not deliver justice along the boundaries of consent.
The production unites Bunya Productions producers Greer Simpkin and David Jowsey (“Sweet Country,” “High Ground”) with Embankment’s Kevin Loader, who is currently in post-production on Nick Hytner’s “The Choral.” Erivo will executive produce through her banner Edith’s Daughter alongside Solome Williams. Director White and writer Miller, will also executive produce.
After first premiering in Sydney in 2019, “Prima Facie” had a hugely successful run on the West End in London in 2022, where it was nominated for five Olivier Awards, winning best new play and best actress for Comer. When it moved to Broadway the following year, Comer won the Tony Award for best actress. Comer is set to reprise her role in a new U.K. and Ireland tour planned for 2026.
“Suzie’s phenomenal play captivated audiences across 32 countries,” said Embankment’s Hugo Grumbar. “The movie promises powerhouse performances – balancing intense sharp-witted conflict with the tenderness of the best of protective human instinct – brave, bold, and laced with wit and delicacy.”
Erivo is coming off the back of another adaptation of a stage production, Universal’s hugely successful musical “Wicked.” Her acclaimed lead turn as Elphaba resulted in her second Oscar best actress nomination (after “Harriet” In 2019), as well as BAFTA, Golden Globe and SAG Award nods.
Erivo is repped by UTA, Entertainment 360, Peikoff Mahan and The Lede Company; White by CAA and Casarotto Ramsay & Associates; Miller by CAA, HLA Management, The Agency, and Jackoway Austen.
Read the full article here
