Yahoo Movies Wicked's Cynthia Erivo lands lead role in movie adaptation of Jodie Comer play
Note: This article contains mentions of rape that some readers might find distressing.
Wicked actress Cynthia Erivo has landed herself the lead role in a film adaptation of Prima Facie, the play that debuted in the West End in 2022 and is currently on Broadway, with Jodie Comer leading both stints.
The play centres on a defence attorney named Tessa who starts off as working class but quickly rises through the field to become one of London's brightest legal stars, defending clients accused of sexual assault along the way.
When Tessa is raped by a colleague, she discovers that the law doesn't always deliver the sense of justice the victims deserve.
Related: First look at Bridgerton star Jonathan Bailey in Wicked movie
Suzie Miller has adapted her own play for the film version, which will be directed by Star Wars: Andor's Susanna White.
In a statement (via Variety) Erivo said: "I am thrilled to be joining Suzie, Susanna, Participant, Bunya [Productions] and the rest of the team on this journey.
"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.
Related: Cynthia Erivo comes out as bisexual with powerful Pride message
"Jodie Comer's powerhouse exploration of that struggle on Broadway is nothing short of beautiful and heart-wrenching. When I read this script I knew it was important work to do. I look forward to getting to know who Tessa is to me as Prima Facie goes from stage to screen."
Miller added that Erivo is "a highly talented and nuanced actor who will create a bold and dynamic Tessa for the screen."
Currently, Erivo is hard at work on the two-part film adaptation of Wicked, where she is playing the main role of Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West.
If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information from Rape Crisis England and Wales, who work towards the elimination of all forms of sexual violence and sexual misconduct, on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland’s helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.
Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.
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