Codeblack Films, a Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF) company, has acquired the rights to the popular Flyy Girl book trilogy written by New York Times bestselling author Omar Tyree.
This captivating trilogy is a coming of age story that explores the journey of a young woman motivated by the material life who plunges into a fast-paced world of gratuitous sex, violence and heartbreak in an attempt to find herself and to assess her goals in life during the modern Hip-Hop era. The second book in the series, “For the Love of Money” won an NAACP Image Award (2001, Outstanding Book, Fiction).
Tyree’s books have been read by over 8 million people worldwide, and have grossed more than $30 million for publishing giant Simon & Schuster. His brand is one of the most talked about in the urban community, and his products can be found in 12 countries.
“Omar Tyree has created a franchise with an incredible story that connects with audiences worldwide,” said Codeblack Films President Jeff Clanagan. “Codeblack is excited to have the film rights for these books which have been a staple in the African-American community for more than 20 years. We’re thrilled to have the chance to finally bring these stories to screen.”
Codeblack Films’ General Manager Quincy Newell brokered the deal with Global Renaissance Entertainment Group’s CEO/Owner Arthur Wylie and Chief Operating Officer Dale Godboldo. Jean Chi, Lionsgate’s SVP of Business & Legal Affairs, business executive Greg Snodgrass of Business Affairs Inc. and Jeffrey Miles, attorney for Global Renaissance Entertainment Group, handled legal duties.
“I couldn’t be happier to embark on this journey with Codeblack Films and Global Renaissance Entertainment Group,” states Omar Tyree. “I have every confidence that my brand has found the perfect home with one of the most effective machines in Hollywood.”
“Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain,” featuring one of America’s hottest young comedic talents, was released nationwide on July 3 by Summit Entertainment in conjunction with Hartbeat Productions and Codeblack Films, opening to an impressive $17.4 million and grossing more than $26 million at the domestic box office to date. Codeblack Films has recently unveiled an upcoming slate that includes the suspenseful thriller “Repentance,” starring Forest Whitaker, Anthony Mackie and Sanaa Lathan, the romantic drama “Things Never Said,” starring Omari Hardwick and Shanola Hampton, and George Tillman, Jr.’s “The Inevitable Defeat of Mister and Pete,” starring Academy Award® winner Jennifer Hudson and executive produced by multiplatinum recording artist and Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys.