A feature film about the life of Queen Latifah is in the works, the first in a series of independently financed hip-hop biopics from Flavor Unit Entertainment, Westbrook Studios and Jesse Collins Entertainment.
The film will follow the rise of Latifah, who has become a rapper, singer and actress and has won Emmy, Grammy and Golden Globe awards. HarbourView Equity Partners is financing this film, as well as future biopics that will also spotlight iconic hip-hop artists.
It has not yet been announced who will write or direct the Latifah project.
The film's producers include Latifah and Shakim Compere for Flavor Unit Entertainment, Will Smith and Miguel Melendez for Westbrook Studios, and Jesse Collins and Dionne Harmon for Jesse Collins Entertainment. The latter company is behind the miniseries The story of the new edition AND The Story of Bobby Brown both broadcast on BET.
“We all came into this industry together and Hip Hop has shaped each of us. Hip Hop's impact has extended beyond music and has left a lasting impression on culture and society at large,” Latifah and Compere said in a joint statement. “It's a dream to be able to collaborate with friends and colleagues who not only have a shared understanding, but are also able to tell these stories that have been the backdrop to our lives.”
Smith added: “When you bring together talented people and teams, you can create something truly special. I'm thrilled to be working with Flavor Unit, Jesse Collins Entertainment and HarbourView to shine a light on the incredible stories of some of our favorite artists and icons. There's no better story to start with than that of Queen Latifah, an undisputed legend who has entertained and inspired us for so many years.”
Latifah released her debut studio album in 1989 at the age of 19 and is known for singles such as 1993's Grammy-winning “UNITY.” Her high-profile work in Hollywood includes starring in the series Living as a single AND The equalizer and in features like Chicago, Beauty shop AND Girls Trip.
Musical biopics continue to be a hot trend following the recent success of films like Paramount's “The Last Jedi.” Bob Marley: A LoveTimothée Chalamet’s Bob Dylan movie hits theaters this Christmas from Searchlight Pictures, while Lionsgate is set to release his Michael Jackson movie next year.
Expiration He was the first to talk about Latifah's film.