Lee Sung Jin, creator of Beef, has launched Lila Pictures, a production company focused on scripted series and feature films under his pact with Netflix. Hyunji Ward, whose credits include Daddio, will lead the company’s film and television work as senior vice president. Ward previously worked at UTA and spent the past four years at TeaTime Pictures.
Lee plans to use Lila Pictures to create, write, direct and executive produce projects, as well as support emerging creative voices. The company’s name comes from a Sanskrit word meaning “divine play.”
Among its projects in development is The Only Child, a limited drama series that reunites Lee with Ali Wong and playwright and screenwriter Ava Wong Davies. Wong will produce and star as the mother of a professional archer preparing to compete for her first gold medal.
Lila is also developing Citizen’s Arrest, a drama series created by Gene Hong. It follows two longtime friends and neighbors who become fixated on solving a local crime as a way to avoid personal crises they are not ready to confront.
Lee said he was excited to launch the company with Netflix’s support and Ward’s help. Beef, an anthology series spanning two seasons, has received 11 Emmy wins from 29 nominations.
Sources: The Hollywood Reporter.