Director Steve McQueen is going to direct Chiwetel Ejiofor in a movie called ‘12 Years A Slave’, based on a book by the same name.  It will be produced under Brad Pitt’s company, Plan B.

Steve McQueen and Chiwetel Ejiofor

The movie is about a young man, Solomon Northrup, a New Yorker, who is kidnapped in 1841 and made a slave on a cotton plantation in Louisiana.  He is finally rescued in 1853 and sues the slave traders (who counter-sue him) for kidnapping him and forcing him into slavery.

The movie is based on the book written by Northrup himself and there is a lot of speculation about the style that the film will be made in.   Steve McQueen tends to use a minimalist style, so it will be interesting to see how he brings the reality of Northrup’s experience to life.

Folks are also wondering at Brad Pitt’s interest in the film.   Personally I think having two heavyweights in the film industry as one of his freshman production pieces would be enough incentive to join forces.  It is guaranteed to make money, and sure to generate conversation.