John Boyega, who played Stormtrooper turned Rebel fighter Finn in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, is set to play the lead in a new sci-fi romance film from Birds of Prey and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn director Cathy Yan.
Inspired by Rachel Khong’s short story from the Paris Review, The Freshening is "set in an America dominated by a public health initiative known as “the freshening” — where everyone is only able to see their own race and gender. In this near future other world, Sam and Reese (Boyega) meet on a drug that temporarily reverses its effects."
“We are tremendously excited to have John bring this complex character and story to life and can’t wait to begin filming with this incredible group of like-minded creatives,” said producers Ali Wong, Adam McKay and Betsy Koch.
Added Yan: “It’s a dream to work with John Boyega, a singular talent whose commitment to his craft and willingness to take risks have delivered such memorable, wide-ranging performances. I know he’ll bring incredible depth and nuance to Reese. I’m thrilled he’s on for this wild ride.”
Filming is scheduled to commence later this year.