CITIZEN ASHE, PRODUCED BY DOGWOOF FOR CNN FILMS AND HBO MAX, HEADS TO THEATERS WITH MAGNOLIA PICTURES

Magnolia Pictures has boarded CITIZEN ASHE, the Rex Miller- and Sam Pollard-directed documentary feature produced by Dogwoof for CNN Films and HBO Max.  The film will open in theaters in New York on Dec. 3 and in Los Angeles, on Dec. 10, accompanied by an Academy campaign.  The film explores the legacy of three-time Grand Slam, barrier-breaking tennis legend and humanitarian, Arthur Ashe, and has generated early awards buzz.  CITIZEN ASHE premiered to critical acclaim at Telluride Film Festival last month, where critics called it a ‘poignant tribute’ and a ‘fascinating, candid portrait of the trailblazing tennis pro.’

“Sam Pollard and Rex Miller have delivered an exquisite, moving look at the life of a true iconoclast, one who forged his own path and defied stereotypes at every turn,” said Magnolia Pictures president Eamonn Bowles.

“We’re delighted to work with our frequent collaborators at Magnolia Pictures as they share our passion in bringing essential, timely stories, like CITIZEN ASHE by co-directors Emmy® Award-winner Rex Miller and Academy Award-nominee Sam Pollard, to the screen.  Arthur Ashe’s legacy, not only as a tennis great, but also as a trailblazer in the fight for racial justice and equality, will resonate strongly with audiences today,” said Courtney Sexton, senior vice president for CNN Films who, along with Amy Entelis, executive vice president for talent and content development for CNN Worldwide, is an executive producer for CITIZEN ASHE.

CITIZEN ASHE features interviews with Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe, Johnnie Ashe; tennis legends Billie Jean King, John McEnroe, Donald Dell, Charlie Pasarell, and Lenny Simpson; and activist Prof. Harry Edwards.  The film reveals the very private person behind the historic Grand Slam titles and Ashe’s anti-racism and human rights activism.  CITIZEN ASHE will premiere internationally at BFI London Film Festival on Oct. 10.