Paint It Black the Movie

More than just a gleam in Mama’s eye now.  It’s in Variety, and its official, the Paint It Black movie is shot and wrapping.  Amber Tamblyn, a true force of nature, who fell in love with the book back in 2007, wrote the screenplay, fought to get it made and in the end, directed it as her debut behind the camera. Alia Shawkat (Arrested Development) and Janet McTeer (OBE, Tony winner, 2 time Oscar Nominee) are starring,  along with Alfred Molina (“Call me Fred”) as Cal,  Nancy Kwan (The World of Suzie Wong!) as a refashioned Sofia, Emily Rios as Pen and Rhys Wakefield as Michael, plus Chris Palko (Cage) as Nick Nitro, and Mish Way from White Lung as Lola Lola.

It’s been an incredible journey–the book was optioned before, and with a screenplay that was truly–OMFG.  It took someone who loved it, fought for it, was passionate about it–to finally get this done.  And no one can be more passionate than Amber Tamblyn, believe me.  And now, these ultimately talented actors.  How she did it, god only knows.

Always a strange thing to walk in and see your book reimagined in physical reality.  I don’t care if a movie paints by the numbers or breaks out and does its own thing as long as its a work of art that adheres to its own logic, and man, this is that movie.

23 Responses to “Paint It Black the Movie”

  1. congratulations !that’s a great news! It’s been six years since it was published in Poland. I was hoping to see the movie one day. now it’s happening ! I’m very happy for you and miss Tamblyn.

  2. Passionately and gratefully thrilled for YOU, Amber, and YES! OMFG for all of us as well!!!!!

  3. Many hugs to you, Janet! Congratulations!

  4. Fantastic! Can’t wait to see it!

  5. This is very exciting news, Janet. I can only imagine how excited you must be. And I love your attitude toward the movie being its own thing beyond the book. More writers should feel that way about their novels turned into movies. Congratulations.

  6. Congratulations. I know your great book will be a great movie.

  7. Tom Rastrelli Says:

    This is fantastic. Of all the books I’ve read in the past decade, this is the one I’ve most wanted to see adapted into a film. I remember chatting with you Janet about this possibility five years ago at USC. I’m delighted to hear Amber made it a reality. Congratulations, Janet, Amber and all.

  8. Exciting news, Janet. Congrats to all.

  9. Oh My God! This is the best news EVER! I am so excited for you and for this movie. I have yearned for Paint It Black to become a movie ever since I bought my copy, I seriously can’t wait to see it!!! Congratulations and thank you so much for your wonderful writing!

  10. carole taub Says:

    Wow….huge congrats! This is wonderful news. I’ve read the book twice, and now i’ll greatly be looking forward to the film!

  11. Zunaid Says:

    Dear Ms. Fitch, I hope my comment finds you well and in great spirits this festive season (which quickly draws to a close before it was even opened!). First off, I can’t believe I have not posted a comment here before, being a devotee of your writing and of this blog, recommending it to my creative screenwriting students here in South Africa for the last three years. Secondly, congratulations to you on having a second novel adapted into film! The “Paint It Black” adaptation has been one of my top ranked entertainment news items to watch out for since the first story was published (I loved the novel a great deal, read it twice, which I seldom do). I must write to you about another more interesting reason as to why this news compels me to contact you (it’s something you’d love to hear I’m sure!). I’d love to have the opportunity to compose an email to you later on (long overdue!). In the meantime, have a peaceful, joyous, and possibly memorable start to the new year! You have my best wishes and thoughts. Your South African admirer.

  12. […] My favorite book is going to be a movie! […]

  13. Do you know the release date for the movie? Can’t wait to see it!

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