Another Spike Lee Joint Is Coming: HBO Sets Filmed Version of David Byrne Broadway Show for 2020 – IndieWire

Spike Lee is currently basking in some of the best film reviews of the year for his Vietnam War epic Da 5 Bloods, which launched June 12 on Netflix and rocketed to the top of the streamers most-watched chart, but that wont be the only new Spike Lee joint released in 2020. HBO has announced it has picked up the rights to release a filmed version of the directors Broadway show David Byrnes American Utopia later this year. The film is a recording of the musicians eponymous Broadway show, in which he performed songs alongside 11 other musicians from around the world.

David Byrnes American Utopia is a uniquely transformative experience and a perfect example of how entertainment can bring us together during these challenging times, HBO programming executive vice president Nina Rosenstein said in a statement. Spikes brilliant direction adds a level of intimacy to this powerful performance, and were so thrilled to share this groundbreaking show with our audience.

David Byrne added of the project,Spike and I have crossed paths many times over the years, obviously Im a huge fan and now finally here was an opportunity for us to work together. I am absolutely thrilled with the result. The Broadway show was a wonderful challenge as well as an opportunity it was a joy to perform and, well, best to let the quotes speak for themselves. Thrilled that this show and the subjects it addresses will now reach a wider audience.

It is my honor and privilege that my art brother, Mr. David Byrne, asked me to join him in concert, to invite me into his magnificent world of American Utopia, Lee said. And dats da once in a lifetime truth, Ruth. Ya-dig? Sho-nuff. Peace and love. Be safe.

David Byrnes American Utopia ran at Broadways Hudson Theater from October 2019 to February 2020. The concert found Byrne and his fellow musicians performing songs from his 2018 album of the same name, plus classics from the Talking Heads catalogue and Byrnes solo career. HBO has not announced a release date for Lees concert film but it did confirm it will debut later this year. Lees Da 5 Bloods is now streaming on Netflix.

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Another Spike Lee Joint Is Coming: HBO Sets Filmed Version of David Byrne Broadway Show for 2020 - IndieWire