Friday Film Sets The Director
Get ready for some throwback comedy gold, because the legendary Ice Cube is back on set, not just as a star, but as the driving force behind the next installment of the popular “Friday” buddy comedy franchise.
Director Lawrence Lamont has taken the helm for “Last Friday“, the newest entry in the celebrated series, which is set to hit theaters through a partnership between Warner Bros. Pictures and New Line Cinema.
This isn’t just another comedy; it’s a journey back to the streets of South Central Los Angeles, the setting for the original film. In that story, Ice Cube and Chris Tucker carved out a hilarious and sometimes heartbreaking portrait of slacker Craig Jones and small-time drug dealer Smokey, navigating the chaos of jobs, relationships, family drama, and the constant threat of death.
The legacy of the “Friday” films is rich. The original movie was helmed by F. Gary Gray in 1995, followed by sequels “Next Friday“ in 2000 and “Friday After Next” in 2022. Ice Cube not only starred in these earlier films but also contributed to the writing process, cementing the franchise’s unique voice.
The series also branched out, including the short-lived but memorable “Friday: The Animated Series”, which premiered in 2007, proving the enduring appeal of these characters.
For the new chapter, the creative control is firmly in the hands of the star. Ice Cube is not only starring in “Last Friday“ but is also writing the script and serving as a producer, working alongside producers Bob Teitel and Michael Gruber to bring the vision to life.
The production itself is massive, promising an immersive experience. The film will be shot across Southern California and is set to benefit from the state’s production incentive program, securing $11.4 million in tax credits.
The logistical undertaking is substantial: a 40-day shoot involving 43 cast members and 150 crew members are planned to capture the energy and authenticity of the story.
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