HBO Max is on a signing roll. “DMZ,” based on the DC comic-book series, has tapped Rosario Dawson (“Jane the Virgin,” “Zombieland: Double Tap”) to headline the pilot from director Ava DuVernay (“Selma, “Middle of Nowhere”).
The story is set in a futuristic Manhattan, now a demilitarized zone (DMZ), set apart from an embattled America engaged in a second civil war. Manhattan is caught between the forces of the USA and the secessionist Free States of America.
Dawson plays a medic in search of her lost son, as she confronts warlords and militias in this nightmare scenario.
“DMZ” is an adaptation of Brian Wood and Riccardo Burchielli’s DC Comics series; it was published from 2005-2012 and produced 72 issues. Wood has said the genesis of the idea came from 9/11 and the invasion of Iraq.
This is DuVernay’s second DC comic project. At present, she is directing the movie “New Gods.”
Dawson appeared in Frank Miller-Robert Rodriguez’s graphic novel adaptation of “Sin City” and several Netflix Marvel series, including “Daredevil” and “Iron Fist.” She also provided the voice of Wonder Woman in various DC animated projects.
The Dawson announcement follows news that Oscar-winning director Steven Soderbergh has signed with the streamer.