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Filming is underway on DreamWorks Pictures' "Head of State," starring and directed by comedy star Chris Rock, marking his directorial debut. Rock also co-wrote the screenplay with Emmy Award-winning writer Ali LeRoi, who previously collaborated with Rock on "Down to Earth."

In "Head of State," Rock stars as Mays Gilliam, a Washington D.C. neighborhood Alderman, who's about to be red-lined out of his job. But after the untimely death of the party frontrunner, Gilliam is plucked from obscurity and thrust into the limelight as his party's nominee -- for President of the United States.

The film also stars Bernie Mac ("The Bernie Mac Show") as Gilliam's older brother Mitch, who becomes his running mate; Robin Givens ("Book of Love") as the ex-girlfriend who dumped Gilliam, but who has a sudden change of heart when she sees a chance at becoming First Lady; Dylan Baker ("Road to Perdition") as Gilliam's campaign manager; Tamala Jones ("On the Line") as Lisa, the woman who believes in Gilliam; and Lynn Whitfield ("Stepmom"), as Gilliam's reluctant advisor.

"Head of State" is being produced by Ali LeRoi, Michael Rotenberg ("Down to Earth") and Chris Rock, and executive produced by Ezra Swerdlow ("Wag the Dog"). The behind-the-scenes production team includes cinematographer Donald E. Thorin ("Shaft"), production designer Steven J. Jordan ("Never Been Kissed"), Oscar(R)-winning editor Stephen A. Rotter ("The Right Stuff," "America's Sweethearts"), and costume designer Amanda Sanders ("Pootie Tang").

Principal photography on "Head of State" began on July 15, 2002 in Baltimore, Maryland. Filming will be done entirely on location in Baltimore and Washington D.C.

SOURCE: DreamWorks Pictures