Janelle Monae to Bring Tanya Smith’s Daring Heist Memoir to the Big Screen

Universal Pictures has secured the rights to transform Tanya Smith's gripping memoir into a feature film. The movie will recreate Smith's audacious story of defrauding banks and outsmarting the FBI, as chronicled in her book "Never Saw Me Coming: How I Outsmarted the FBI and the Entire Banking System – and Pocketed $40 Million." Janelle Monae, acclaimed for her roles in "Moonlight" and "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery," will star in and produce this riveting adaptation through her company, Wondaland Pictures.

Tanya Smith's journey into the world of high-stakes crime began in her teenage years. Her talent for hacking financial systems led her to accumulate millions of dollars. Despite her success, Smith's criminal activities eventually attracted law enforcement's attention, culminating in her conviction for bank and wire fraud. Her ability to evade capture for years challenged initial FBI perceptions, which underestimated her intelligence and capabilities.

Smith's life took a transformative turn following her release, as she emerged as a staunch advocate for prison reform and racial justice. Her involvement in the film extends beyond her memoir, as she will serve as an executive producer. This collaboration brings an authentic perspective to the narrative, ensuring the film captures the essence of her story.

Overseeing the project for Universal Pictures are Ryan Jones and Tony Ducret. Their involvement underscores the studio's commitment to delivering a compelling cinematic experience. This adaptation promises to blend thrilling heist elements with a profound exploration of societal issues, echoing Smith's advocacy work.

Janelle Monae spoke about her approach to creative projects, stating,

"I look at myself as a magician. I try to make magic with whatever I touch. That requires hard work, that requires a certain amount of focus and attention to whatever it is that I'm doing."

Her dedication to her craft aligns seamlessly with the film's ambitious vision, promising a powerful portrayal of Smith's life and legacy.