Malcolm Washington, the son of famous actors Denzel and Pauletta Washington, has directed his first feature film. The film is an adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning August Wilson play “The Piano Lesson.” Netflix will release the film globally.
Washington spent years preparing for the challenge of adapting Wilson’s complex family drama play to film. He studied the history and culture of Pittsburgh in the 1930s, when the story is set. Washington also spoke to relatives of the late Wilson to better understand his work.
The film tells the story of the Charles family and their debate over an heirloom grandfather clock covered in depictions of their ancestry. These carved images hold deep meaning for the family members’ understanding of themselves and their past. When watching the play, parts of the story resonated strongly with Washington and his own concerns with ancestry and legacy as a rising filmmaker.
An impressive cast, including Samuel L. Jackson, John David Washington, and Corey Hawkins, brings the memorable characters to life. Many cast members knew Wilson’s work from previous stage performances. Samuel L. Jackson, in particular, originated the role in its first Broadway production in 1987. John David Washington, who plays Boy Willie, is Malcolm Washington’s older brother.
Shooting took place on soundstages in Georgia and on location recreating 1930s Pittsburgh. Production designer David Bomba spent extensive time researching Wilson’s old neighborhood to accurately capture the setting. Actors’ powerful performances were key in Washington’s adaptation from play to film.
The movie pays tribute to Washington’s mother Pauletta, who appears in a role. At one screening, she was moved to tears by the film’s emotional ending, which includes a title card honoring her. As the worldwide Netflix release approaches, Malcolm Washington starts his career supported by family and faithful to August Wilson’s enduring works.
