Embracing Diversity: Netflix Adapts Haitian-American Novel 'Pride' for the Screen

In a move that celebrates diverse storytelling, Netflix has announced the development of a new film based on the 2018 YA novel "Pride" by Haitian-American author Ibi Zoboi. The project, a modern retelling of Jane Austen's classic "Pride and Prejudice," will be produced by President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama's Higher Ground Productions, in collaboration with Alloy Entertainment, the company behind the original book.

Bringing Underrepresented Narratives to the Forefront

Exploring Gentrification and Cultural Clashes

The film, titled "Pride," is set in the gentrifying Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, and centers around Afro-Latina teen Zuri Benitez. Zuri is determined to preserve her community and manage the chaos within her own family. However, when the wealthy Darcy family moves in next door, Zuri's disdain for the arrogant Darius Darcy evolves into an unexpected connection, forcing her to reconsider her preconceptions about pride, prejudice, and the meaning of home.This modern adaptation promises to delve into the complex issues of gentrification, cultural identity, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities as they navigate the changing landscape of their neighborhoods. By setting the story in a diverse, urban setting, the film aims to provide a fresh perspective on the timeless themes of Austen's classic work.

Collaborating with Acclaimed Creatives

The adaptation is being written by Karen Joseph Adcock, known for her work on the critically acclaimed FX series "The Bear," for which she shared a WGA Award with the writing team. Adcock's impressive resume also includes credits on Showtime's "Yellowjackets" and two series from Donald Glover: "Atlanta," for which she shared a Peabody Award, and "Swarm."The project is being produced by Leslie Morgenstein and Elysa Koplovitz Dutton for Alloy Entertainment, the company behind several successful Netflix releases, including "You Are SO Not Coming to My Bat Mitzvah," "Purple Hearts," and "Work It." On behalf of Higher Ground Productions, Vinnie Malhotra, Anikah McLaren, and Mark Wright will also serve as producers, further solidifying the collaboration between the Obamas' production company and Netflix.

Building on a Legacy of Diverse Storytelling

This announcement comes on the heels of another Netflix project, a new "Pride and Prejudice" series adaptation written by Dolly Alderton, further showcasing the streaming giant's commitment to exploring classic narratives through diverse lenses.Higher Ground, the Obamas' production company, has already made its mark in the documentary space with acclaimed films like the Oscar-winning "American Factory." Now, the company is expanding its reach into narrative features, with recent releases like the thriller "Leave The World Behind," which ranked among Netflix's most popular movies of all time, and the Oscar-nominated "Rustin."Alloy Entertainment, the company behind the original "Pride" novel, has also demonstrated its ability to deliver successful adaptations for Netflix, with several of its films debuting at the top of the platform's viewership charts.By bringing together this impressive creative team and leveraging the resources of both Higher Ground and Alloy Entertainment, the "Pride" adaptation promises to offer a fresh, compelling, and culturally significant take on a beloved literary classic, further expanding the representation of diverse voices and perspectives in mainstream media.