Thu Oct 23 09:10:00 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dakota Johnson to Make Directorial Debut with “A Tree Is Blue”; Vanessa Burghardt, Charli XCX, and Jessica Alba in Talks to Star
Los Angeles, CA – Actress Dakota Johnson is set to step behind the camera for her feature directorial debut with the drama “A Tree Is Blue.” Vanessa Burghardt, known for her role in “Cha Cha Real Smooth,” who also wrote the screenplay, is in negotiations to star, alongside pop star Charli XCX and actress Jessica Alba.
The film, penned by Burghardt, who is autistic, tells the story of a young autistic woman navigating independence and self-discovery during the summer after high school. She breaks free from her overprotective mother in search of freedom, friendship, and new experiences.
Burghardt’s involvement brings a unique perspective to the project. “A Tree Is Blue” marks her screenwriting debut.
Principal photography is slated to begin in November in Los Angeles. The film, with a budget under $10 million, will be financed by Rivulet Entertainment and has qualified for $2.4 million in California tax credits. CAA Media Finance is handling sales.
Johnson, Ro Donnelly, and Sam Racanelli will produce for TeaTime Pictures, while Rob Paris and Mike Witherill will produce for Rivulet. Hyunji Ward of TeaTime will serve as executive producer alongside Rick Steele.
Johnson previously directed the short film “Loser Baby,” which premiered at the 2024 Toronto Film Festival.
Charli XCX’s acting career continues to blossom, with a string of upcoming projects adding to her expanding filmography.
Johnson is represented by CAA, Untitled Entertainment, and Johnson Shapiro. Burghardt is represented by Arise Artists Agency and Bloch Law. Charli XCX is represented by CAA and Good World Management. Alba is represented by UTA, 3 Arts Entertainment, and Sloane, Offer.
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