Deadline brings word that Netflix has obtained the global distribution rights to Oscar winner Steven Soderbergh’s (Traffic, Erin Brockovich, Sex, Lies, and Videotape) NBA drama High Flying Bird. The movie stars André Holland (Castle Rock, Moonlight, The Knick) and Emmy nominee Zazie Beetz (Deadpool 2, Atlanta, X-Force).
High Flying Bird is set during a basketball lockout and follows a sports agent (Holland) who pitches a rookie basketball client (Melvin Gregg) an intriguing and controversial business proposition. Beetz plays Holland’s right-hand in the project.
Melvin Gregg (UnREAL), Sonja Sohn (The Chi), Zachary Quinto (Star Trek: Beyond), Kyle MacLachlan (Twin Peaks), and Bill Duke (Predator) also star in the film.
“We had several strong options for distributing High Flying Bird, but to borrow the patois of the movie itself, this deal felt like a slam dunk and the perfect way for me to being my relationship with Netflix as a director,” Soderbergh said.
High Flying Bird was written by Oscar-winner Tarell Alvin McCraney (Moonlight) and produced by Joseph Malloch. Executive producers include Holland through his Harper Road Films banner and Ken Meyer (Unsane). The movie serves as a reunion for Holland and Soderbergh who last collaborated together on Cinemax’s series The Knick.
Netflix is planning to launch the project in 2019.
(Photo Credit: Getty Images)
