Teyana Taylor’s Directorial Debut “Get Lite” Gathers a Star‑Studded Cast

Golden‑Globe winner Teyana Taylor is moving from the studio to the director’s chair, and she’s doing it with a bang. Her first feature, the dance‑driven drama “Get Lite,” will follow a shy but talented dance student who discovers love, family, and a whole new rhythm in the unexpected tunnels of the New York City subway.

At the heart of the picture is Ceyair Wright – the NFL rookie‑turned‑actor playing the titular “student” caught between two worlds. He’s joined by Emmy winner Storm Reid, who brings the spark of a young woman opening his world to fresh possibilities. Their chemistry is the engine that drives the story’s emotional core.

Adding serious gravitas to the mix are Tony winner Leslie Odom Jr. (of “Hamilton” fame) and Oscar‑nominated actress Aunjanue Ellis‑Taylor (“King Richard,” “Lucky”). Both have signed on to round out the ensemble, promising performances that will lift the film beyond a simple dance showcase.

“Get Lite” isn’t just about choreography; it’s built around Litefeet, the high‑energy street‑dance style that sprang from Taylor’s own Harlem roots. The film will spotlight that kinetic style while also exploring the cultural heartbeat of the city’s underground.

Production kicks off this month in New York City, with Paramount set to give the film a wide theatrical release on August 20, 2027. The screenplay, penned by Maurice Williams, adapts a spec script by Eric Gross that made the Black List in 2020. Besides the main cast, the project has attracted indie hip‑hop artist Khayr Bullock, Twitch streamer Tylil James, and actor Woody McClain, among others. Jodie Turner‑Smith and Asante Blackk are also in talks for key roles.

Storm Reid is stepping behind the scenes as well, co‑producing with Kenya Barris’s Khalabo Ink Society, Anni Weisband, and her own banner A Seed & Wings Productions. Taylor herself will co‑produce alongside Courtney “Coco” Gilbert under their joint venture The Aunties.

Representatives from WME, CAA and various talent agencies are handling the talent, ensuring “Get Lite” has a solid backing on both the creative and business fronts. With a blend of fresh faces and seasoned veterans, the film is poised to become a vibrant tribute to the city’s dance culture and a compelling coming‑of‑age story.