John Legend producing musical romantic drama; Miguel in talks to star

Fresh off his award-season wins and attention, John Legend has lined up a new film project.

The musician, who won an Oscar and other prizes for his original song “Glory,” is set to produce a musical romantic drama via his Get Lifted Film Co. along with IM Global and Furst Films, the companies announced Monday.

Recording artist Miguel is in negotiations to star in the yet-untitled movie, which will tell the story of a former one-hit wonder who reconnects with his love for music when he’s hired to coach an aspiring singer for her audition on a competitive TV show.

Nabil Elderkin, a veteran director of commercials and music videos, is to make his feature debut on the film, working from a script by Taylor Cohen. The film is scheduled to start production in September in Philadelphia.

According to the announcement, the movie is to be “told significantly through music,” which Legend, a nine-time Grammy winner, will curate. The film marks his first feature as a full-on producer.

The news comes at a time when music-themed drama has become a pop-culture force via Fox’s TV hit “Empire.”

Best known as a purveyor of smooth-voiced soul music, Legend garnered acclaim for “Glory,” which he wrote and performed with the rapper Common (Che Smith also shares writing credit). Legend and Common helped shake up an otherwise tame Oscar telecast with their rousing performance of the song and their bold acceptance speeches.

Follow @ogettell for movie news