Michelle Obama documentary covering ‘Becoming’ book tour debuting on Netflix in May

Netflix is releasing a documentary next month about former first lady Michelle Obama’s book tour for her autobiography, Obama announced Monday. 

The documentary directed by Nadia Hallgren is titled “Becoming,” the same title as her book.

“Those months I spent traveling — meeting and connecting with people in cities across the globe — drove home the idea that what we share in common is deep and real and can’t be messed with,” Obama wrote in an Instagram post announcing the documentary. 

“I treasure the memories and that sense of connection now more than ever, as we struggle together to weather this pandemic, as we care for our loved ones, and cope with loss, confusion, and uncertainty. It’s hard these days to feel grounded or hopeful, but I hope that like me, you’ll find joy and a bit of respite in what Nadia has made,” she added. 

I’m excited to share that on May 6, @Netflix will release BECOMING, a documentary directed by Nadia Hallgren that shares the stories of the amazing people I met after the release of my memoir. During this difficult time, I hope you’ll find some inspiration and joy in this film. pic.twitter.com/fqsIbhXYeL

— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) April 27, 2020

The documentary is set to be released on May 6. 

Obama said Hallgren is a “rare talent,” adding that the director understands the meaning and power of community, and “her work is magically able to depict it.” 

The former first lady also urged Americans to find empathy during difficult times due to the pandemic. 

“Even as we can no longer safely gather we need to stay open and able to put ourselves in other people’s shoes. Empathy is our lifeline here. Let’s use it to redirect our attention toward what matters most, and find ways to better remake the world in the image of our hopes,” she said. 

Obama and her husband, former President Obama, announced a deal with Netflix in 2018 to produce films and series for the streaming service. The Obamas’ Higher Ground Productions was also involved with films “Crip Camp” and “American Factory,” which won the Oscar for best documentary feature earlier this year.