‘The Piano Lesson’ Director Malcolm Washington & Star John David Washington Honored As Film Opens 60th Chicago International Film Festival
deadline.comEXCLUSIVE: The 60th Chicago International Film Festival has named the Netflix film The Piano Lesson as its opener, and the fest award first time director and co-writer Malcolm Washington its Breakthrough Award.
The film’s star, John David Washington, will be presented the Spotlight Award “in recognition of the emotional complexity and power he brings to his transfixing performance as Boy Willie.” The festival opening festivities take place October 16.
The Netflix adaptation of the August Wilson play is a Washington family affair. Aside from siblings Malcolm and John David, The Piano Lesson is produced by their father, Denzel Washington, alongside his oft-collaborator Todd Black.
Their sister, Katia Washington, is executive producer, and mom, Pauletta Washington, plays the role of Mama Ola. In the famous Wilson play, a battle brews in the Charles household.
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