Magnolia Films has secured the global distribution rights for the documentary Little Richard: I Am Everything, according to a report from Variety. The film, directed by Lisa Cortés, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on Thursday night. The movie delves into the early days of rock n’ roll through the lens of Little Richard’s life and career, specifically the impact of his identity as a black and queer artist. The film will be released in April and was honored to be selected as the opening night feature for Sundance’s U.S. Documentary program.
Magnolia Pictures President Eamonn Bowles said in a press release,
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The film was produced by Robert Friedman, Liz Yale Marsh, Caryn Capotosto, and Bungalow Media + Entertainment and produced for CNN Films and HBO Max in association with Rolling Stone Films. HBO Max holds domestic and international streaming rights to the film.
“Little Richard is the true king of rock and roll, the alpha and omega of wild, rhythm-based music. Lisa Cortés does the legend proud, getting the true story that celebrates this icon who shook the culture in so many ways.”
The film is already gaining attention and acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival. The film will have additional in-person and online screenings throughout the festival, which runs from Jan. 19 to Jan. 29. The acquisition and release of the film will bring Little Richard’s story and impact on the culture to a broader audience and solidify Magnolia Films as a tastemaker in the documentary film industry.
Little Richards Queerness at Center of Documentary About his Life
Director Lisa Cortés emphasizes the importance of Little Richard’s identity in shaping both his music and the cultural landscape. According to The Wrap, Cortes says,
“Rock n’ roll, race, and queerness are core to our culture – and our culture wars,” she said. “Little Richard changed America’s notions of all three.”
Little Richard: I Am Everything’s examination of Little Richard’s queerness is particularly timely as conversations about representation and inclusion in the entertainment industry continue to evolve. Little Richard’s flamboyant stage presence, fearless embrace of his own identity, and influence on other queer artists helped pave the way for future generations.
Cortés is thrilled that Magnolia Pictures will be bringing this film to audiences worldwide, stating, “I’m thrilled that Magnolia Pictures is bringing this raucous, revolutionary icon to the world at this moment, when his journey could not be more relevant.”
The film is a powerful reminder of the impact that Little Richard and other queer artists of color have had on shaping our culture and pushing for acceptance and representation.
