VH1 began production on The Breaks, an original film based on Dan Charnas’ The Big Payback: The History of the Business of Hip-Hop. Set in New York City circa 1990, the legendary DJ Premier will serve as the executive music producer and compose the score.
The main protagonist are three friends, each representing a different background and a shared dream of breaking into the Hip-Hop industry just as the culture reached mainstream awareness. Deadline reports that the film could serve as a backdoor pilot for a potential series.
Premo’s involvement all but ensures that the feel of the time, both musically and aesthetically, will be properly captured on screen. Given the Grammy-winner’s extensive musical knowledge and firsthand experiences in the culture as one-half of Gang Starr and a producer for artists like Notorious B.I.G., Jay Z, Nas, and many more, it will be interesting to see how he scores the film.
The Breaks will be written, directed and executive produced by Seith Mann, whose list of work includes directing episodes of The Wire, Grey’s Anatomy, Dexter, and more. Filming begins in June; it’s expected to air sometime this fall.
Additionally, a screenplay written by Charnas will serve as source material for Russell Simmons’ upcoming Broadway musical The Scenario.
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