Tyscot Films announced today that Principal Photography will begin on Friday, June 14th in the Greater Atlanta area for its third major motion picture film, Switching Lanes.
The new film is a coming of age story about two teen girls, Kaneesha and Sarah, one black, one white; both living in the same city but have no idea that they are twins. Unbeknownst to them, they were kidnapped from their biological parents at two years old and are now living “separate but equal” lives in the segregated town of Casterville. But God does work in mysterious ways as the two girls meet and find an irresistible affinity for one another, despite the negative reactions of their mostly racist friends. When their biological mother finally finds them, their world is turned upside down. The faith of the girls is challenged, along with the very moral fiber of the town of Casterville.
Starring Michael Lerner (GLEE), Marla Maples(Executive Decision), Terri J Vaughn (Steve Harvey Show), Victoria Staley (Raising Izzy), Doc Shaw (House of Payne, Pair of Kings), LisaRaye McCoy (All of Us, Single Ladies), “Tiny” Tameka Cottle (TI & Tiny: The Family Hustle), Fred Hammond (Gospel Artist) and Marvin Winans, Sr.(Gospel Artist).
Switching Lanes was written and co-produced by Raven Magwood, a 20 year old, author and motivational speaker who has accomplished more than most in their lifetime. For Magwood, this film has been years in the making and she’s excited to share this powerful story with audiences nationwide: “Switching Lanes has so many great elements that the whole family will definitely enjoy. The subject of the film is very timely and I am certain the audience will be able to relate on many levels. I know that this movie will spark conversation about the racial issues in today’s society. I feel blessed that a story I wrote at 13 years old is being turned into a movie,” said Magwood.
Directed by Hollywood veteran actor/director, Tommy Ford (MARTIN, Fox New York Undercover, UPN The Parkers, TVOne Who Got Jokes), Switching Lanes will be added to Ford’s growing director resume including the films: Conflict of Interest & Coming Correct.
Ford shared: “I believe that true entertainment emerges AFTER an audience has encountered an artistic experience. It is my desire that this film touches the lives of everyone who views it, and allows each audience member to re-examine their definition of family, forgiveness, fate, and faith!”
Taking the helm as producer is Shannon Nash, president of the Nash Management Group, Inc. a business and entertainment management company whose clients have included: Terri J. Vaughn, Jasmine Guy, Doc Shaw, Tommy Ford, Debbie Allen and Ne-Yo. Nash has worked on a growing list successful projects on television and the big screen including Pariah (which premiered at 2011 Sundance Film Festival), Versailles ’73: American Runway Revolution (screened in Cannes 2012) and The Rickey Smiley Show (TV show on TVOne, 2012).
Producer Shannon Nash added: “I was attracted to the film because it made me challenge what even my thoughts are on society and how we live. This is about community, faith, friendship and love that transcend all. I hope the audience is moved in a way that not only is entertaining but also sparks true dialogue and conversation, especially for the younger generation.”
Executive Producer Bryant Scott states: “I am excited to be working with such an awesome team of talented indivuals to bring this much needed message to the world through the medium of film.”
Tyscot Films will release Switching Lanes during the first quarter of 2014.
