Focus Features Amy Winehouse bipoic ‘Back to Black’ looks to have found a home at Studiocanal with breakout star Marisa Abela is set to star as Winehouse, and Sam Taylor-Johnson to direct. Focus will distribute the pic in the U.S., with Universal Pictures International handling international distribution. Filming is set to begin on Monday in London.
While a number of actresses met with the production team, sources say the first audition by Abela blew away execs and Taylor-Johnson signed her for the role. With Focus now on board, all signs are pointing as this being the first pic to likely to make it in front of audiences, with approval from the Winehouse estate.
“We are thrilled that Studiocanal, Focus Features and Monumental are making this movie celebrating our daughter Amy’s extraordinary music legacy and showcasing her talent in the way that it deserves,” the estate said.
Winehouse is considered one of the greatest artists in recent history, selling more than 30 million records worldwide, and generating more than 80 million streams per month. Her album Back to Black earned her a record-breaking five Grammys including Record of the Year and Song of the Year for hit single “Rehab.”
Email: neill@outloudculture.com
