Chinese American director Cathy Yan, known for her work on DC’s “Suicide Squad” spin-off “Harley Quinn: Birds of Prey,” will be directing the upcoming sci-fi romance film “The Freshening,” starring “Star Wars” actor John Boyega.
According to Deadline, “The Freshening” takes place in an alternate America where a public health initiative called “the freshening” is in control. This initiative restricts people’s vision, solely allowing individuals to perceive others who are of the same race and gender as them. The film follows the journey of two characters, Reese (played by Boyega) and Sam, who meet while on a drug that temporarily overturns the effects of the initiative.
The upcoming film is based on a short story by Rachel Khong and will be produced by Ali Wong.
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Yan, who notably became the first Asian woman to direct a superhero film and the second female director ever hired by DC, recently expressed her excitement over Boyega’s casting in the film, saying, “It’s a dream to work with John Boyega, a singular talent whose commitment to his craft and willingness to take risks have delivered such memorable, wide-ranging performances. I know he’ll bring incredible depth and nuance to Reese. I’m thrilled he’s on for this wild ride.”
Filming will start later this year. An official release date has yet to be announced.
