Star-studded Cast Joins Teyana Taylor's Directorial Debut 'Get Lite'

Teyana Taylor, the Golden Globe-winning artist and Oscar and Grammy nominee, is bringing together an impressive lineup of talent for her upcoming feature film, "Get Lite." This directorial debut will star Storm Reid and Ceyair Wright, an NFL rookie turned actor.

Adding to the ensemble, Tony Award winner and Oscar nominee Leslie Odom, Jr. (known for "Hamilton" and "One Night in Miami") and Oscar nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor ("King Richard," "Lucky") have officially joined the Paramount production. The movie centers on a gifted yet sheltered dance student who discovers inspiration, affection, and a sense of belonging in an unexpected locale: the New York City subway system. Wright portrays the student navigating two distinct worlds, while Reid takes on the role of the young woman who broadens his perspectives. A crucial element of this dance-centric film is Litefeet, an energetic dance style that originated in Taylor's hometown of Harlem.

Filming for "Get Lite" is scheduled to kick off this month in New York City, with a broad theatrical release planned for August 20, 2027. Taylor, fresh from her critically acclaimed performance in "One Battle After Another," is directing from a screenplay by Maurice Williams, which is based on an original script by Eric Gross that made the Black List in 2020. Additional cast members confirmed include independent hip-hop artist Khayr Bullock, Twitch personality Tylil James, and actor Woody McClain ("Power Book II: Ghost," "The Harder They Fall"). Negotiations are also underway for Jodie Turner-Smith ("Queen & Slim," "The Agency") and Asante Blackk ("When They See Us," "This Is Us") to take on significant roles. Beyond her acting duties, Reid is also serving as a producer, collaborating with Kenya Barris and Anni Weisband through Barris' Khalabo Ink Society, Robyn Simpson for Reid's own A Seed & Wings Productions, and Bill Karesh for Offbrnd. Taylor is co-producing the film alongside Courtney "Coco" Gilbert, under their joint production banner, The Aunties.

This film is a testament to the power of artistic collaboration and the exploration of rich cultural narratives. By bringing the vibrant energy of Litefeet dance and the compelling stories of its characters to the big screen, "Get Lite" promises to be a celebration of self-expression, community, and the transformative power of art. It highlights the importance of finding one's path and discovering unexpected connections in the journey of life.