Barack and Michelle Obama's Higher Ground Productions has unveiled a slate of six new development projects at Netflix, including a film adaptation of Mohsin Hamid's novel Exit West, starring Riz Ahmed and directed by Yann Demange (White Boy Rick); and a YA series based on Angeline Boulley's forthcoming debut novel, Firekeeper's Daughter, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
"We created Higher Ground to tell great stories," the Obamas said in a statement. "This group of projects builds upon that goal and the incredible path forged by films like Crip Camp, Becoming, and the Oscar-winning American Factory. From science fiction to the beauty of our natural world to the relationships that define us, Higher Ground continues to strive for fresh perspectives, compelling characters, and a healthy dose of inspiration. We couldn't be more proud to team up with the brilliant artists behind each of these stories. Each of them has something important to say."
Netflix co-CEO and CCO Ted Sarandos commented: "It has been thrilling to watch President Barack Obama, Michelle Obama and the Higher Ground team dive into original programming and produce incredible stories. American Factory, Crip Camp and Becoming have captivated audiences all around the world, and their new slate highlights the variety and depth of programming on the horizon as well as new and exciting storytellers."
The recently announced projects join animated children's show Ada Twist, Scientist--based on the books by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts--from executive producer Chris Nee and docuseries The G Word with Adam Conover, loosely based on Michael Lewis's book The Fifth Risk.