Amazon, already a major original content source in television thanks to new hit shows like “Transparent“, have set their sites towards original filmmaking, and it looks like they’ve worked up quite a catch. Spike Lee signed a deal with Amazon Studios for them to produce his latest feature, Chiraq. Meanwhile, Kanye West, Common, Samuel L. Jackson and Jeremy Piven are eyed or in talks to star in the ensemble piece.
The plot details are scarce for the moment, but as The Wrap notes, “Chiraq” has quickly become a synonymous name for Chicago, thanks to their increased gun violence in recent years.
West and Piven are both Chicago natives, while Jackson and Lee have an extended working history together. None of the others, however, are confirmed for their roles. The “Entourage” alum’s involvement is the shakiest, as Piven is slated to shoot another season of his series “Mr. Selfridge” soon and that may interfere with the shoot. No official production start date is announced for Amazon/Lee’s film just yet.
Also, should West sign on, this likely becomes the rapper’s first on-screen dramatic performance. His acting experience is mostly relegated to comedies, such as his cameo in Anchorman 2: The Legend Contines and an upcoming role in another sequel, Zoolander 2.
In addition to Lee, Amazon also recently worked out a deal with another veteran filmmaker Woody Allen. Back in January, he agreed to write and direct his first-ever series for the site, which is slated to come out sometime in 2016.
Additionally, Chiraq is Lee’s first feature film since his Kickstarter-funded vampire tale Da Sweet Blood of Jesus. That indie was given a limited release earlier this year.
