Oscar-winning director Barry Jenkins celebrated legendary writer James Baldwin's birthday today by posting a teaser for his adaptation of the novelist's acclaimed book If Beale Street Could Talk.

The plot centres on married couple Fonny and Tish (played in the film by Stephan James and Kiki Layne) whose love protects them from their respective families and the outside world. That is until Fonny is falsely accused of rape. After his imprisonment, Tish finds out she is pregnant. She, her family, and her lawyer race against the clock to find evidence that frees Fonny before the baby is born.

The film's gorgeous trailer showcases more of Jenkins delicate direction and DoP James Laxton's sensual cinematography, elements which made Moonlight such a surprise runaway success. In 2017, the film picked up two Academy Awards, one for Best Adapted Screenplay and another shock Best Picture Win, beating favourite La La Land.

If Beale Street Could Talk also features in it's cast Atlanta's Bryan Tyree Henry, Narcos' Pedro Pascal, Rogue One's Diego Luna and Dear White People's Teyonah Parris. It will be out in America November 30, making it an Oscar contender. As of yet, it does not have an Irish release date.

The trailer, featuring narration from James Baldwin himself, can be seen below.

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