By The upcoming Netflix produced crime drama The Council has found its leading man in the form of Will Smith. Assuming the role of New York City crims boss Nicky Barnes, Smith will be reuniting with Concussion director Peter Landesman for a film that is said to show “the never-before-told story of a crime syndicate.” Set in the late 70s/early 80s Harlem, The Council explores the story behind Barnes’ rise to prominence and his eventual imprisonment.
Landesman will be pulling triple duty not only as director but as writer and executive producer. Smith, along with James Lassiter, will produce (for Overbrook Entertainment) with Matt Jackson and Jason Essex from Anonymous Nobodies. The film currently has no release date, though production is likely to begin in short order. Smith is currently hot from his performance in Aladdin, which has gone on to break $1 billion at the global box-office.
Will Smith To Star As Crime Boss Nicky Barnes In Netflix Film ‘The Council‘ [Deadline]
