Oscar-Nominated Cinematographer Rachel Morrison To Make Feature Directorial Debut With ‘Flint Strong’ From Writer Barry Jenkins

It’s only a matter of time for a cinematographer of a certain caliber to get offered a major film to direct. In the case of Rachel Morrison, the Oscar-nominated cinematographer, she’s ready to make the jump to the director’s chair after being behind the camera for some truly impressive films.

According to Variety, Morrison has signed on to direct the film “Flint Strong,” making the project her directorial debut. Perhaps best of all, the film is written by none other than Barry Jenkins, of “Moonlight” and “If Beale Street Could Talk” fame. It’s being reported that Jenkins was hoping to helm “Flint Strong” himself, but is stepping aside for Morrison but staying on as a producer.

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“Flint Strong” is based on the 2015 documentary titled “T-Rex.” The film follows the true story of 17-year-old Claressa “T-Rex” Shields, who dreamt of being an Olympic champion boxer. Of course, if you’re a fan of boxing, you probably know that Shields would go on to become a two-time gold medalist thanks to her victories at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games.

As mentioned, Morrison was nominated for an Oscar for the 2017 film “Mudbound.” This was significant as the filmmaker became the first woman to ever be nominated in the cinematography category. Morrison is also known for her work on films like “Dope,” “Fruitvale Station,” and “Black Panther.” Her next film behind the camera is the upcoming “Against All Enemies.”

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This isn’t the first time that Morrison has assumed the director’s role, however. While she has yet to handle a feature film, the filmmaker was the director of TV episodes on series like “Hightown,” “American Crime,” and “Quantico.”

There’s no release date set for “Flint Strong,” but this is a project you’re going to want to keep an eye on.