Charli XCX to star alongside Jessica Alba in Dakota Johnson’s directorial debut

Pop star Charli XCX and Hollywood actor Jessica Alba are in talks to star in "A Tree Is Blue", the upcoming feature film that marks Dakota Johnson's directorial debut. The film is written by Vanessa Burghardt, who is also in discussions to join the cast.

While plot details remain tightly under wraps, production is expected to begin next month in Los Angeles, with CAA Media Finance handling sales. The film will be fully financed by Rivulet Entertainment, with Johnson producing alongside Ro Donnelly and Sam Racanelli under her TeaTime Pictures banner. Rob Paris and Mike Witherill will also produce for Rivulet, while Hyunji Ward and Rick Steele serve as executive producers.

Johnson, who previously directed the short film "Loser Baby" — which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) last year — is stepping into full-length directing after a string of acclaimed acting roles. Her recent credits include "Splitsville" (Neon), which she also produced, and A24's "The Materialists".

Screenwriter Vanessa Burghardt, known for her breakout role opposite Johnson in "Cha Cha Real Smooth", makes her feature writing debut with "A Tree Is Blue".

Meanwhile, Jessica Alba, who recently starred in and produced Netflix's "Trigger Warning", is set to appear in "Maserati: The Brothers" alongside Anthony Hopkins, Andy Garcia, and Al Pacino.

For Charli XCX, this marks another addition to her growing list of film projects. The Grammy-winning artiste is currently producing and starring in A24's "The Moment" and has appeared in "Faces of Death, I Want Your Sex", and "The Gallerist".

Read more

Gift or scam?: Tanjin Tisha responds to fraud allegations

"A Tree Is Blue" promises to blend Johnson's artistic sensibility with a diverse and high-profile ensemble cast — a project that's already generating buzz ahead of its production start.