VH1’s Working on ‘The Breaks’ Based on ‘The Big Payback’ Book

VH1 Works on The Breaks Hip Hop Movie

VH1 is moving forward on a new original movie tentatively titled The Breaks and based on the book The Big Payback: The History of the Business of Hip-Hop by Dan Charnas. Charnas’ bestseller, which examines the history of hip-hop, will be adapted for the screen by Charnas and Seith Mann (director of The Walking Dead, Homeland, The Wire). Mann’s also executive producing and directing the film that could, if it works out as VH1 anticipates, launch a series following its debut.

Filming’s expected to begin this spring with VH1 aiming for a fall premiere date.

The Breaks has the hallmark of a successful VH1 film: a strong, authentic storyline that celebrates a musical moment,” stated Susan Levison, Executive Vice President, Original Programming and Production, VH1. “The story covers a seminal time when some thought Hip-Hop was a passing fad – The Breaks will show how it became an enduring force. We can’t wait to share it with our viewers.”

The Plot:

The Breaks (WT) will chronicle the journey of Nikki, David and Deevee, three friends united by their love of hip-hop, as they work to make their big mark in the music industry. The film will travel viewers back to the summer of 1990 in New York City where the music industry’s artists and hustlers intersect in the dance clubs and the street corners of the still crime-ridden city. Nikki Jones is a brilliant recent grad who abandoned a scholarship to law school to pursue her dream of becoming a record exec. Her boyfriend, David Aaron, is the scrappy son of a legendary music producer who is unwilling to rest on his father’s laurels and notorious reputation. DeeVee is an aspiring producer on the hunt to find the next big rapper on the come-up.

Nikki fast talks her way into an internship at the premier hip-hop company, Fouray Entertainment and catches the eye of the label’s infamous founder, while David struggles at the city’s top R&B radio station whose celebrity DJ refuses to program real hip-hop. Meanwhile, DeeVee returns to his roots in the Fort Greene projects to scout for talent and runs into Ahm, a drug dealer with a lyrical gift whose talent could bring them all to the next level. But they will soon discover lives can be broken as fast as legends can be born.


-By Rebecca Murray

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