US rapper, artist and fashion designer Pharrell Williams poses during a photocall prior to the Chanel Spring-Summer 2019 Ready-to-Wear collection fashion show at the Grand Palais in Paris, on October 2, 2018. (Photo by FRANCOIS GUILLOT/AFP via Getty Images)
Over the past few weeks, “Happy” singer Pharrell Williams has been busy filming his untitled autobiographical life story. Williams is working in collaboration with Universal Studios and French filmmaker Michel Gondry, who directed the 2004 hit Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.
Here’s what we know: The film is set to take place in 1970s-era Virginia Beach and will tell the story of Williams’ childhood growing up in Hampton Roads.
However, as rumors swirl around this film, production remains rather tight-lipped when it comes to details.
According to IMDB and gossip from local business owners, the working title for the film is Atlantis, in honor of Williams’ childhood home—the Atlantis apartment complex.
IMDB may have also spilled the beans on the film’s cast, which includes stars like Halle Bailey, Janelle Monae, Brian Tyree Henry, and even Missy Elliott.
Filming in Richmond and Hampton Roads is expected between May 15 and Aug. 7—ånd Williams has already been spotted at local restaurants like Croaker’s Spot in Richmond.
Filming the project over the summer will likely make a big economical splash in Virginia. The Virginian-Pilot reported that upwards of $84 million could benefit the commonwealth, solely thanks to the production. Tourism is also expected to skyrocket as many visitors try to catch a glimpse of the film’s production.
Do you plan to travel within our commonwealth to see if you can spot one of the many celebrities in the movie? If so, we’re here to help. We’ve got great places to eat in Richmond, fun things to do in Virginia Beach, and delicious desserts in Hampton Roads.
Support Our Cause
Thank you for taking the time to read our work. Before you go, we hope you'll consider supporting our values-driven journalism, which has always strived to make clear what's really at stake for Virginians and our future.
Since day one, our goal here at Dogwood has always been to empower people across the commonwealth with fact-based news and information. We believe that when people are armed with knowledge about what's happening in their local, state, and federal governments—including who is working on their behalf and who is actively trying to block efforts aimed at improving the daily lives of Virginia families—they will be inspired to become civically engaged.
In Walworth County, neighbors rallied for rides—and rediscovered what it means to be a community
When I was a new mom, I wanted nothing more than to move out into the countryside with my baby. I had been raised in mostly rural places and have...
2025’s Something in the Water Festival is canceled
It's official: Virginia Beach city officials canceled this year’s Something in the Water Festival. After months of planning and turmoil, 2025’s...
No, I’ve never spanked my seven-year-old son
Long story short: It’s absolutely possible to raise an awesome human being without whooping them. Feel free to come at me with your opinions. I’ve...
From bar to barre: Where we’re going this Dry January
Written by Sarah ConliskFor many, it's hard to imagine surviving the holidays—interacting with family, mingling at the office party, passing the...
UVA architecture students doodle on napkins for a cause
Earlier this year, UVA architecture students hosted a napkin drawing competition to raise money for a local charity. Got a napkin? You might just...
UVA student unicycles the height of Everest
Mason Allen, a UVA sophomore, conquered the Everesting challenge on a unicycle, climbing 29,032 feet in 21 hours, breaking the previous record....
