Amandla Stenberg to Star in ‘Black Lives Matter’ Inspired Movie

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Marc Jacobs

The story will follow a 16-year old who must deal with the aftermath of witnessing a police officer shoot her unarmed best friend.

Toni Akindele Mar, 24, 2016

Teen activist and actress Amandla Stenberg has been cast to star in Fox 2000’s adaptation of The Hate U Give, Angela Thomas’s upcoming debut novel.

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Inspired by the “Black Lives Matter” movement, the story follows Starr (played by Stenberg), a 16-year old who attends a suburban prep school and must deal with the aftermath of witnessing a police officer shoot her unarmed best friend.

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According to THR, the adaption’s script will be written by Audrey Wells, who adapted Under the Tuscan Sun, and will be directed by Notorious director, George Tilman Jr.

An ecstatic Angela Thomas took to Twitter to announce the news:

Okay, I’ve stopped crying enough to Tweet. Guys, George Tillman. This movie is in wonderful hands. He GETS it. I got chills during our call.

— A.C. Thomas (@acthomaswrites) March 23, 2016

And of course @amandlastenberg. I’m thrilled beyond words that such a talented & intelligent person will be bringing Starr to life on screen

— A.C. Thomas (@acthomaswrites) March 23, 2016

Also, this is the perfect time to play the HELL out of Formation. Thank you, Queen Bey, for an anthem.

— A.C. Thomas (@acthomaswrites) March 23, 2016

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We applaud all of this Black Girl Magic!