THE HELP's Viola Davis & Octavia Spencer to Reteam with Director Tate Taylor for James Brown Biopic GET ON UP

By: Sep. 30, 2013
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Once more, Tate Taylor is in need of a little HELP.

According to Deadline, Taylor has selected THE HELP's leading ladies Viola Davis and Octavia Davis to star in his upcoming James Brown biopic GET ON UP for Universal Pictures.

Based on the incredible life story of the Godfather of Soul, the film will give a fearless look inside the music, moves and moods oF Brown, taking audiences on the journey from his impoverished childhood to his evolution into one of the most influential figures of the 20th century. 42's Chadwick Boseman will star as the legendary Brown.

In the film, "Davis will play Susie Brown, who was only 16 when she gave birth to the future R&B legend, and abandoned him to live with relatives. Spencer will play the child's Aunt Honey, a formative figure in his upbringing."

Academy Award winner Brian Grazer (A Beautiful Mind, 8 Mile) and Erica Huggins (Flightplan) produce for Imagine Entertainment, with Mick Jagger and Victoria Pearman (Shine a Light) producing under their Jagged Films banner. Under his Wyolah Films label, Taylor also serves as a producer on Get On Up, while Wyolah's John Norris executive produces alongside Trish Hofmann and Peter Afterman.

GET ON UP is set for an October 17, 2014 release.

Davis is the recipient of two Tony Awards for her performances in King Hedley II and Fences. She received a Tony nomination for her performance in 'Seven Guitars'. Her other film credits include 'Eat Pray Love' and 'Doubt' for which she received an Oscar nomination. She also recently appeare in 'Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close' and 'Beautiful Creatures'

A veteran character actress and one of Hollywood's most sought-after talents, Spencer has become a familiar fixture on both television and in film. Her critically acclaimed performance as Minny in DreamWorks' The Help won her the 2012 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress as well as the BAFTA, Golden Globe, SAG, and Broadcast Critics' Choice Awards, among countless other honors.

Photo by RD / Orchon / Retna Digital



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