It was in August 2013 when it was first revealed that Issa Rae was developing a series for HBO, created by she and funnyman (and now late night host) Larry Wilmore, which was to focus on “the awkward experiences and racy tribulations of a modern day African-American woman,” as was officially described at the time.
Skip ahead to earlier this year, when it was announced that HBO had given a pilot order for the project, which will be titled “Insecure,” and which Issa Rae will star in, as well as write, along with Wilmore.
To be produced by 3 Arts, the firm managing both Wilmore and Rae, the project has now attracted the talents of music video director, Melina Matsoukas, who will helm the pilot, making her TV directing debut. A fall shoot date for the pilot is eyed, meaning I wouldn’t look for a finished product until some time in 2016 (I was actually hoping for sooner, but I won’t be greedy).
Of course, HBO still has to order the pilot to series, which will be its next big hurdle, after the pilot is done.
According to her Wiki page: Matsoukas is of Greek, Jewish, Jamaican and Cuban descent. She earned her degree at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts and completed her graduate work at the American Film Institute (MFA in cinematography). Her work is described as, “chock full of bright colors or crisp black and white images, smooth spotlights, and tasteful retro video models.” She’s directed music videos for top industry talent like Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Rihanna, Christina Aguilera, Solange Knowles and others.
By the way, Ms Rae has a new book out currently, published by Simon & Schuster, titled “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl,” available at your local bookstore (on- or off-line).
Source: Shadow & Act
