Beachside announced today that Jessica Williams (“The Daily Show”) will star in writer/director Jim Strouse’ new film in a role specifically developed for her. The pair first worked together on Strouse’ “People Places Things” which premiered to critical and audience acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival in 2015 and was released later that year. Chris O’Dowd (“Bridesmaids”), Lakeith Stanfield (“Straight Outta Compton,” “Atlanta”) and Noël Wells (“Master of None”) will co-star in the film, currently shooting in New York City. The film is being produced by Michael B. Clark and Alex Turtletaub of Beachside, which is also financing the picture. Williams is an excecutive producer. ICM Partners is handling domestic sales.
Jessica (Williams) is an aspiring playwright in New York City trying hard to get over a recent break-up with her boyfriend. She sees light at the end of the tunnel when she meets Boone (Chris O’Dowd), himself recently divorced. Together, they figure out a way to make it through the tough times – and in the meantime, they realize they like each other – a lot. Stanfield will portray the ex-boyfriend Jessica still carries a torch for and Wells portrays Jessica’s best friend and confidante.
Commenting on Jessica Williams’ casting, Jim Strouse stated, “While I was in the edit room for ‘People Places Things,’ I kept telling people that I can’t wait till she stars in her own movie. I just decided to get a jump on it and wrote one for her. I couldn’t be more thrilled to be making it with Jessica and the rest of this incredible cast which came together around her.”
Writer/director Jim Strouse’s directorial debut, “Grace is Gone,” starring John Cusack, won the Sundance Audience Award in 2007. He later wrote and directed “The Winning Season,” starring Sam Rockwell and Emma Roberts, and “People Places Things,” starring Jemaine Clement and Jessica Williams. Additional writing credits include John Krasinski’s upcoming “The Hollars” and Steve Buscemi’s “Lonesome Jim.” Strouse is represented by ICM Partners and Thruline Entertainment.
Jessica Williams is best known for her recurring role on “The Daily Show,” and her podcast “2 Dope Queens,” as well as her starring role in Strouse’s “People Places Things” opposite Jemaine Clement. She is represented by UTA and Mosaic. Chris O’Dowd is best known for his role in “The IT Crowd.” He is represented by WME and Three Arts Entertainment. Lakeith Stanfield is known for his roles in “Straight Outta Compton” and “Selma” and is represented by CAA and Stark Management. Noël Wells is best known for her role in “Master of None” and is represented by ICM Partners and Kirsten Ames Management.
