Da’Vine Joy Randolph stars in dark comedy *Dedicated to Morris Burke*

Da’Vine Joy Randolph will star in “Dedicated to Morris Burke,” an indie dark comedy from first-time feature director Will Ropp. The Oscar-winning actress plays Judy Brooks, whose late husband—once a best-selling novelist—surprises her by dedicating his final manuscript not to her, but to a man named Morris Burke.

Randolph joins the project after recent Oscar buzz for her dramatic role in *The Holdovers*, marking a shift toward darker, edgier material. Will Ropp, a rising talent in independent film, wrote and directs the film, which explores themes of betrayal, identity, and the uncanny power of literature. The twist premise—exposing a secret dedication in a dead writer’s work—echoes real-life literary scandals, like the long-rumored controversies surrounding J.D. Salinger’s personal life or the posthumous discoveries about other iconic authors.

The film is currently in pre-production, with casting still underway. Randolph’s involvement signals both critical and commercial potential for the project, especially as she continues to expand her range beyond awards-friendly dramas. Her character, Judy Brooks, is a woman confronting not just emotional betrayal, but the public erasure of her identity. The film’s darkly comic tone suggests a biting commentary on artistic legacy and personal legacy, themes that resonate in today’s cultural moment of re-evaluating authors and their legacies.

Production is expected to begin this fall in New York, with Ropp aiming for a festival premiere in 2025. The film could become part of the growing wave of prestige indie comedies that blend sharp writing, strong performances, and timely themes. For Randolph, it’s another step toward balancing blockbuster opportunities with meaningful, offbeat roles. For Ropp, it’s a chance to establish himself as a bold new voice in American film. The Morris Burke dedication may be the film’s hook—but its heart lies in what it reveals about love, art, and the stories we leave behind.