Key Highlights
- Dakota Johnson is set to direct her feature film debut titled “A Tree Is Blue.”
- Charli XCX and Jessica Alba are in talks to star in the project.
- The film is planned for production next month in Los Angeles with Rivulet Entertainment fully financing it.
- Vanessa Burghardt, who co-starred with Johnson in “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” is writing the script.
Dakota Johnson’s Directorial Debut Set for Screen
Entertainment news broke that Dakota Johnson, best known for her roles in films like “50 Shades of Grey” and “The Parent Trap,” is set to direct her first feature film. Titled “A Tree Is Blue,” the project is a significant step for the actress-turned-director who has previously demonstrated her passion for filmmaking through directing short films such as “Loser Baby.”
The Cast
Starring alongside Johnson in the upcoming film are two prominent figures from the entertainment industry: Charli XCX, the Grammy-winning musician, and Jessica Alba, a prolific actress and producer. Both have been racking up on-screen credits recently and bring their respective talents to this project.
A Collaborative Effort
Producing the film is a collaborative effort involving several key players in the industry. Johnson will be producing alongside Ro Donnelly and Sam Racanelli for TeaTime Pictures, while Rob Paris and Mike Witherill from Rivulet Entertainment are fully financing the project. Additionally, Hyunji Ward is set to executive produce for TeaTime, working alongside Rick Steele.
Script and Writing
The screenplay for “A Tree Is Blue” has been penned by Vanessa Burghardt, a first-time screenwriter who co-starred with Johnson in the 2015 film “Cha Cha Real Smooth.” This collaboration between writer and director promises an intimate and personal story that is likely to resonate with audiences familiar with their previous works.
Industry Context and Future Implications
This project marks a significant milestone for Dakota Johnson, highlighting her growth as a multifaceted artist. Her directorial debut comes at a time when the film industry is increasingly welcoming more diverse voices behind the camera. As a result, “A Tree Is Blue” could serve as an important stepping stone not only for Johnson but also for other actresses looking to transition into directing.
Meanwhile, for Charli XCX and Jessica Alba, this project represents another opportunity to expand their portfolios beyond acting or producing.
The involvement of both seasoned professionals in a directorial debut suggests the growing trend of artists branching out to explore different creative avenues.
The production is scheduled to commence next month in Los Angeles, with CAA Media Finance handling sales on behalf of the film. This indicates that there is significant interest from the industry in this project, reflecting the potential success it might have once released.
