Edward Norton ‘Obama Documentary’ Began in 2006

Days after the election of Barack Obama, HBO has paid low seven figures for U.S. TV rights to Amy Rice and Alicia Sams’ untitled documentary on the senator’s presidential run.

Rice brought the idea to Edward Norton and his Class 5 Films banner in 2006. Norton secured cooperation with Obama and has had cameras rolling ever since, capturing his 2006 trip to Africa and his 2007 presidential announcement. The production has had close access to Obama as well as his family, friends, campaign staff and volunteers.

Shooting will continue through the inauguration.

“We believe this film will capture a tipping point in American history, when a new generation of leadership emerged and old prejudices were finally vaulted over,” Norton said.

The film is being produced by Norton, Stuart Blumberg and Bill Migliore with financing by Good, Green Film Co., Citi Prods. and Class 5 Films. Endeavor Independent head Graham Taylor and Andrew Hurwitz negociated with HBO on behalf of the filmmakers and are seeking a theatrical distribution.