Denzel Washington, Viola Davis to star in Fences

Actor Denzel Washington is set to star in and direct the movie version of August Wilson’s Fences for Paramount Pictures with Viola Davis on board.

Bron Creative and Macro are producing the movie with Washington, reported Variety. The film is based on Wilson’s screen adaptation of his Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning play.

“This important and beloved play has been a passion of Denzel’s for many years and it is with great excitement that we embark together to bring his dream project to the big screen,” Brad Grey, chairman and CEO of Paramount Pictures said. 

Fences is the story of a one-time promising baseball player, now working as a Pittsburgh garbage collector, and the complicated relationships with his wife, son, and friends. The film’s ensemble cast includes Stephen Henderson, Russell Hornsby, Mykelti Williamson, Jovan Adepo and Saniyya Sydney. 

The film is Washington’s third outing behind the camera following The Great Deabaters and Antwone Fisher.