Cynthia Erivo has been announced as the star of the upcoming film adaptation of the hit theater production “Prima Facie,” according to an exclusive report by Variety. The film will be directed by Susanna White, a BAFTA winner and Emmy nominee, and produced by Participant and Bunya Productions.
“Prima Facie,” which means “at first sight,” is a gripping tale about a determined and confident defense attorney named Tessa. The story follows Tessa, who rises to prominence in the London legal system by deftly defending clients accused of sexual assault. However, her life is turned upside down when she is raped by a colleague and discovers that the law doesn’t always deliver justice when it comes to consent.
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Erivo, who is also executive producing the film through her banner Edith’s Daughter, praised the original stage performance by Jodie Comer, which earned her an Olivier Award and a Tony nomination. Erivo stated that she is honored to be taking on the role of Tessa and that the story is timely and important.
“Tessa’s experience sheds such vulnerable light on the complex conversations around consent and sexual abuse and the law that surrounds it, which is all too relatable for so many and timely for all,” said Erivo.
The film is being adapted by Suzie Miller, the playwright of the critically-acclaimed stage play. Miller called Erivo a “highly talented and nuanced actor who will create a bold and dynamic Tessa for the screen.”
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Participant CEO David Linde expressed his excitement for the project, saying, “I’ve known Susanna long enough to know that I cannot wait for this story to be reinvented for the screen through her lens.”
“Prima Facie” premiered in Australia in 2020 and has since launched in over 25 countries. The play has received four Tony Award nominations and won the 2023 Olivier Award for Best New Play and Best Actress. It also swept the Australian Writers Guild Awards.
Erivo, who is currently in production for the screen adaptation of “Wicked,” is expected to bring her dynamic presence to the role of Tessa in “Prima Facie,” which is sure to captivate audiences when it hits the big screen.