In a groundbreaking move, award-winning studio NEON has secured the worldwide rights to Oscar-nominee Ava DuVernay’s highly anticipated film, “Origin.” The acquisition comes on the eve of the film’s world premiere at the prestigious Venice Film Festival. “Origin” will also grace the gala screening at the Toronto International Film Festival, marking a significant moment in cinema history.
This remarkable film boasts a star-studded ensemble cast, including Oscar nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Jon Bernthal, Niecy Nash-Betts, Vera Farmiga, Audra McDonald, Nick Offerman, Blair Underwood, Finn Wittrock, Jasmine Cephas-Jones, and Connie Nielsen. NEON’s move to secure the rights came after a fiercely competitive bidding process, signaling their commitment to bringing this cinematic masterpiece to audiences nationwide later this year.
DuVernay, an Oscar nominee herself, made history by becoming the first African-American woman director to compete in the Venice Film Festival’s eighty-year history. She not only directed but also wrote and produced “Origin.” The film draws inspiration from the extraordinary life and work of Pulitzer Prize winner Isabel Wilkerson as she penned her seminal book, “Caste: The Origin of Our Discontents.” Despite grappling with personal tragedy, Isabel embarks on a journey of global investigation and discovery. Her ambitious project ultimately resulted in one of the defining American books of our time, characterized by its beauty and bravery.
“Origin” was produced under DuVernay’s ARRAY Filmworks banner in collaboration with Paul Garnes and a team of talented artists. Cinematographer Matthew J. Lloyd, ASC, production designer Ina Mayhew, editor Spencer Averick A.C.E, composer Kris Bowers, costume designer Dominique Dawson, and casting director Aisha Coley played crucial roles in bringing this project to life. The deal was skillfully negotiated by Tom Quinn on behalf of NEON, with CAA Media Finance representing the filmmakers.
NEON CEO and Founder Tom Quinn expressed his deep admiration for DuVernay and her work, dating back to their early interactions. He stated, “I’m truly humbled that it is this movie which has finally brought us together. She has always been a gifted storyteller, and her mastery of her craft shines through in this deeply personal and inspired adaptation of Isabel Wilkerson’s book and dramatization of her remarkable life. Origin proves once again that Ava remains one of the most groundbreaking and essential filmmakers of her generation.”
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DuVernay’s impressive career has been marked by numerous historic achievements. She became the first Black woman to direct a film nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture with “Selma,” a powerful portrayal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s visionary leadership during the landmark 1965 civil rights marches. Her thought-provoking documentary feature, “13th,” earned her an Oscar® nomination and delved deep into the U.S. prison system, exposing the nation’s history of racial inequality. In 2019, her acclaimed limited series, “When They See Us,” received 16 Emmy® nominations, showcasing her exceptional storytelling abilities. DuVernay’s remarkable career began with her second feature, “Middle of Nowhere,” which earned her the Best Director Award at Sundance in 2012, making her the first African American woman to achieve this honor.
With “Origin,” Ava DuVernay continues to push the boundaries of filmmaking, solidifying her status as a visionary and trailblazer in the industry. The film’s premiere at the Venice Film Festival is not only a celebration of her exceptional talent but also a historic moment in cinema history. Audiences eagerly anticipate the nationwide release of “Origin” later this year, as it promises to be a cinematic masterpiece that will captivate hearts and minds alike.
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