Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page to Star in ‘Italianna’ for Universal
variety.comAngelique Jackson Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page are set to star in “Italianna” for Universal Pictures. The film will be directed by Kat Coiro (“Marry Me,” “Matlock”) from a screenplay Ryan Engle (“Rampage,” “Beast”), based on an original idea by Ryan Engle and Kristin Engle.
Plot details are being kept under wraps, but the project has been described as a romantic comedy. Will Packer and Johanna Byer will produce the film through Will Packer Productions’ first-look deal with Universal Pictures.
Senior EVP Erik Baiers and director of development Jacqueline Garell will oversee the project for the studio. Alvie Hurtado will oversee the project for Will Packer Productions.
Five-time Grammy nominee Bailey exploded onto the Hollywood scene starring as Ariel in Disney’s live-action film “The Little Mermaid” and the 2023 musical reimagining of “The Color Purple.” Bailey also shot a co-lead role in “Golden,” Pharrell Williams and Michel Gondry’s musical for Universal, which was shuttered in post-production.
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