James R | On 17, May 2019

Netflix has ordered a new musical adaptation of Romeo and Juliet from Solvan “Slick” Naim.

The award-winning Algerian-American writer, director, and rapper from Bushwick is no stranger to Netflix. He has directed on The Get Down with Baz Luhrmann, and his new comedy, It’s Bruno, premieres today on the service. His other credits include Power on STARZ, Snowfall for FX, and Blacklist on NBC.

Now, he’s tackling Shakespeare, writing and directing a hip hop take on the classic tale. His co-writer is Dave Broome, who will also produce for 25/7 Productions, alongside Yong Yam, with Shakim Compere and Queen Latifah also producing for Flavor Unit Entertainment. Overbrook Entertainment’s Will Smith, James Lassiter and Caleeb Pinkett are also on board as Executive Producers.

The film is described as a contemporary, version of the play, set against the urban rhythms of New York. The love story follows a young waitress from the streets of Brooklyn and an aspiring musician from a wealthy family whose unconventional romance forces them to confront their life choices.

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