LucasFilm will release the motion picture about the Tuskegee Airmen - the first black military aviators in American history which marks George Lucas's first writing credit since The Radioland Murders that wasn't a sequel to a popular franchise that rhymes with Blar Wars or Flindiana Jones. (He only wrote the story, the script is credited to Undercover Brother creator John Ridley.) The movie is the feature directorial debut of television director Anthony Hemingway, who over the last episode has brought you episodes of 17 series including The Wire, Battlestar Galactica and Treme.
In the official press release, Hemingway had this to say: “I am humbled and honored to direct the story of the Tuskegee Airmen – heroes who have paved the way so others could have the opportunity to pursue their dreams.To be selected by George Lucas and Rick [McCallum, producer] to direct this film was more than my wildest dreams come true. It’s been a blessing to work with them, along with the amazingly talented artists at Industrial Light & Magic. I’ve grown a lot on many levels from this experience. As director, I had the fortune to work with a highly skilled crew from the Czech Republic, U.K. and the U.S., along with a remarkably talented group of actors. The resonant beauty, strength and dedication of our heroes is reflected in the powerful ensemble cast.”
The cast includes such actors as Terrence Howard, The Wire's Andre Royo, Bryan Cranston and Cuba Gooding Jr., who actually co-starred in the well-remembered HBO original movie The Tuskegee Airmen alongside Laurence Fishburne, Andre Baugher and John Lithgow.
