Teyana Taylor’s Directorial Debut Signals a Rising Trend: Multi-Hyphenate Artists Taking the Helm
Teyana Taylor, already a celebrated singer, songwriter, choreographer, and actress, is adding another dimension to her career: film director. Paramount Pictures has slated “Get Lite,” her feature directorial debut, for a theatrical release on April 9, 2027. This move isn’t just a career milestone for Taylor; it reflects a growing trend of multi-hyphenate artists transitioning into directing roles, bringing unique perspectives and creative control to filmmaking.
The Rise of the Artist-Director
For years, actors have occasionally stepped behind the camera, but the current wave feels different. Artists like Taylor, who have built their brands on multifaceted talent and a strong creative vision, are increasingly seeking to translate their artistic sensibilities directly to the screen. This is fueled by a desire for greater autonomy and a frustration with being solely interpreters of other people’s visions.
Taylor’s journey exemplifies this. Having directed her own music videos through her company, The Aunties, she’s already demonstrated a command of visual storytelling. “Get Lite,” a story about a dance student finding inspiration in the New York City subways, feels deeply personal, drawing on her own experiences as a dancer and choreographer.
Paramount’s Strategy and the Broader Industry Shift
Paramount’s decision to greenlight “Get Lite” and assign it a release date signals a willingness to invest in emerging directorial talent, particularly those with established fan bases. This is a smart strategy in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape. Studios are looking for projects that come with built-in audiences and a strong marketing narrative.
This trend extends beyond Paramount. Other studios are actively seeking out artist-directors, recognizing the potential for fresh, innovative storytelling. The success of projects helmed by artist-directors often translates into significant buzz and critical acclaim, attracting both viewers and awards attention.
“Get Lite” – A Story Rooted in Personal Experience
“Get Lite” stars Storm Reid and is produced by a team including Kenya Barris and Robyn Simpson. The film’s premise – a talented but sheltered dancer finding his voice in the vibrant world of the New York City subway system – suggests a focus on authenticity and relatable themes. Taylor herself has spoken about wanting to take on challenging roles and further develop her range as an artist.
The project’s focus on dance and urban culture also taps into a growing demand for diverse representation in film. Audiences are increasingly seeking stories that reflect their own experiences and perspectives, and “Get Lite” appears poised to deliver on that front.
Beyond “Get Lite”: Paramount’s Upcoming Slate
Paramount’s announcement included release dates for several other upcoming films, including Jonathan Levine’s “Untitled John Tuggle Film” starring David Corenswet (December 25, 2026), Potsy Ponciroli’s “The Rescue” (January 29, 2027), and an untitled horror film (July 16, 2027). This demonstrates a commitment to a diverse slate of projects, catering to a wide range of audience tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is directing “Get Lite”? Teyana Taylor is directing “Get Lite,” marking her feature directorial debut.
- Who stars in “Get Lite”? Storm Reid is confirmed to star in “Get Lite.”
- When will “Get Lite” be released? “Get Lite” is scheduled for theatrical release on April 9, 2027.
- What is “Get Lite” about? The film follows a dance student who finds inspiration, love, and family in the New York City subways.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on emerging artists with strong creative control. They are often the ones pushing boundaries and shaping the future of filmmaking.
What are your thoughts on the rise of artist-directors? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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