Rashaad Ernesto Green (Courtesy of SAGIndie)
Alum Rashaad Ernesto Green is set to direct the Olympians Feature ‘68, Metro Goldwyn Mayer (MGM), Participant, and MACRO's feature movie inspired by the true story of Olympians Tommie Smith and John Carlos.
The screenplay, written by Oscar nominated scribe Billy Ray, tells Smith and Carlos’ story as track athletes from San Jose State who rose to become Olympic medalists and activists at the 1968 Games in Mexico City. That’s where they both raised their fists in solidarity and in support of human rights.
“Still incredibly powerful and relevant, I’m honored for the opportunity to bring Tommie and John’s riveting story to life; to portray the weight of the world these two giants had on their shoulders and the self-determination, courage and sacrifice it took for them to stand up for all of us,” said Green.
Said Michael De Luca, MGM Film Group Chairman & Pam Abdy, MGM Film Group President, “We are thrilled to have Rashaad Ernesto Green at the helm of this very special film. We are deeply grateful to Tommie and John, along with Rashaad, Stacy, Billy, Participant and MACRO, to entrust MGM to bring [this] story to the world.”
Read more at Deadline.