Cast Set for Regina King’s ‘One Night In Miami’; Film Will Mark Her Directorial Debut

Actress Regina King just keeps on winning and after landing an Oscar last year for ‘If Beale Street Could Talk,’ she’s now securing another bag as she makes her directorial debut with the upcoming film, ‘One Night In Miami.’

According to Deadline, “The film is an adaption of the Oliver-nominated stage play by Kemp Powers, who wrote the script. Set on the night of February 25, 1964, the drama follows the brash young Cassius Clay after he shocked the world by knocking out seemingly invincible Sonny Liston to become heavyweight champion.”

The film highlights Clay’s night after being forced to leave the island due to segregation laws during that time. Clay ends up spending the remainder of his night with close friends Malcolm X, Sam Cooke, and Jim Brown at the Hampton House Motel.

When the night comes to an end, the group of friends leave with a set goal to “define a new world.”

Those set to star in the film include Kingsley Ben-Adir, who will play Malcolm X, and Eli Goree, who will portray Cassius Clay (prior to becoming the great Muhammad Ali). Aldis Hodge will play Jim Brown, and Leslie Odom Jr. will star as Sam Cooke and will sing some of his hit songs, including ‘A Change Is Gonna Come,’ Deadline reports.

Speaking on the film, King stated, “One Night In Miami is a love letter to black manhood that powerfully explores themes of race, identity, and friendship.”

“Each of them has contributed so much to culture and history. We’re so excited to have Kingsley, Eli, Aldis, and Leslie in the lead roles showing a different side of these iconic men,” King continued.

The film will showcase the meeting of these icons from the ’60s and how what was shared amongst each other that night, led to such a legendary outcome for each individual.

Production on the film is underway in New Orleans, and currently, a release date has yet to be revealed.