Sony Pictures has released the official trailer for Prima Facie, the upcoming legal drama starring Cynthia Erivo as a successful defense barrister whose understanding of the justice system is transformed after she becomes the victim of sexual assault. The film, directed by Susanna White and written by Suzie Miller, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last month.
Erivo plays Tessa Ensler, a self-made British lawyer who has built a reputation defending men accused of sexual assault. The trailer follows Tessa as her confidence in the legal system begins to collapse after she is assaulted by fellow barrister Julian, played by Daniel Ings. Forced to navigate the same legal process she once used to defend clients, Tessa confronts the disparity between her professional experience and the reality facing survivors.
Prima Facie is based on Miller’s acclaimed one-woman stage play, which previously starred Jodie Comer in its London and Broadway productions. For the film adaptation, Miller expanded the story beyond its theatrical format, while Erivo’s version of Tessa explores additional aspects of the character’s identity and life outside the courtroom. Miller and Erivo have also discussed the film’s aim of encouraging broader conversations about sexual violence, consent and the legal system.
The supporting cast includes Noma Dumezweni, Toheeb Jimoh, Simon Russell Beale, Elizabeth Dulau and Harry Treadaway. Erivo also serves as an executive producer on the project. The film is scheduled to open in UK and Irish cinemas Nov. 13; see the official trailer: HERE.
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