The First Trailer For Barry Jenkins’ ‘If Beale Street Could Talk’ Is Here Just In Time for James Baldwin's Birthday

Barry Jenkins — the same director who etched his name into the history books when his critically-acclaimed film, Moonlight, took home the Academy Award for Best Picture last year — is finally sharing a first glimpse of his follow-up project, which dives into the complex beauty and pain of Black life.

The first trailer for If Beale Street Could Talk, the film adaptation of James Baldwin’s seminal novel, is finally out. And fittingly, it was released on Baldwin’s birthday.

Set in 1970s Harlem, Beale Street centers around Tish and Fonny, a newly engaged couple thrown into chaos after Fonny is accused of a crime he didn’t commit. Told through Tish’s eyes, the pair have to contend with racism, poverty, and the justice system to keep their relationship alive.

Jenkins’ film adaptation will no-doubt be in the awards conversation later this year; and he’s certainly tapped a talented cast that should give the story the depth and nuance it deserves.

KiKi Layne and Stephan James portray the lead characters. They’re joined by Regina King, Teyonah Parris, Colman Domingo, Brian Tyree Henry and more.

If Beale Street Could Talk will have its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival next month, but it’s slated to hit theaters on November 30.