Dakota Johnson Takes the Director’s Chair for Charli XCX in A Tree Is Blue with Filming Set in LA
Dakota Johnson is set to make her directorial debut with the film A Tree Is Blue. This new drama will feature a compelling story about a young woman on the autism spectrum. As she embarks on a journey for independence, she seeks to break free from her caring yet overprotective mother after her high school graduation.
Filming Details
Principal photography for A Tree Is Blue is scheduled to commence in November in Los Angeles. The film’s budget is estimated to be under $10 million. Additionally, it has successfully qualified for a $2.4 million tax credit in California.
Production Team
The film will be financed by Rivulet Entertainment, with Dakota Johnson, along with Ro Donnelly and Sam Racanelli, producing under TeaTime Pictures. Executive producers include Hyunji Ward from TeaTime and Rick Steele. The film’s script was created by Vanessa Burghardt, who is also set to star in the movie.
Cast and Talent
Alongside Vanessa Burghardt, negotiations are underway for Charli XCX and Jessica Alba to join the cast. Burghardt, who is making her screenwriting debut with this project, is herself autistic, adding a genuine perspective to the film.
Background on Dakota Johnson
Before this feature, Dakota Johnson directed a short film titled Loser Baby, which premiered at the 2024 Toronto Film Festival. Johnson is represented by CAA, Untitled Entertainment, and Johnson Shapiro.
Charli XCX’s Recent Projects
Charli XCX has been actively expanding her acting portfolio. Her recent credits include:
- The Moment – A24 film
- Faces of Death – Cult horror film
- I Want Your Sex – Greg Araki’s erotic thriller
- The Gallerist – Cathy Yan’s film
- 100 Nights Of Hero – A period fantasy by Julia Jackman
- Sacrifice – A satirical action film by Romain Gavras
- Erupcja – Intimate drama by Pete Ohs
Representation
Dakota Johnson, Vanessa Burghardt, and Charli XCX have representation through prominent agencies. Johnson and XCX are represented by CAA, while Burghardt is with Arise Artists Agency and Bloch Law. Jessica Alba is represented by UTA, 3 Arts Entertainment, and Sloane, Offer.
