“King Richard” Oscar nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor stars in the Neon drama

Ava DuVernay’s film “Origin” will have a one-week exclusive theatrical release in Los Angeles and New York in December, more than a month ahead of its scheduled rollout in January, distributor Neon announced on Thursday.

The film, which stars “King Richard” Oscar nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, will play in the two major markets beginning on Dec. 8 before its wider release on Jan. 19, 2024. That short run will qualify it for Oscar consideration for the 96th Academy Awards.

The movie is about a journalist who investigates the global phenomenon of caste and how the arbitrary hierarchy has influenced society. Per the logline, “‘Origin’ explores the mystery of history, the wonders of romance and a fight for our future.”