Idris Elba Pledges Support for Africa Film Industry
Ferdinand Ekechukwu
In an exclusive interview, we discussed the recent announcement that British actor Idris Elba will take on the role of Okonkwo in the upcoming TV series adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s classic novel, “Things Fall Apart.” This news has ignited widespread discussion and concern within the arts community, particularly in Nigeria, as it brings new dimensions to ongoing conversations about representation.
Originally from London, Elba has strong African roots, with a Ghanaian mother and a Sierra Leonean father. He shared his commitment to using his platform to uplift the African film industry, revealing his plans to relocate to the continent within the next decade to provide support for regional filmmakers.
During a film industry event in Ghana, Elba emphasized his passion for enhancing Africa’s filmmaking sector. He previously announced his role as both a star and executive producer for “Things Fall Apart,” a project currently under development at A24 studios.
Elba also hinted at exciting future endeavors, including plans for film studios in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and Accra, Ghana. He stressed the importance of not being tied to one location to effectively contribute to local storytelling. “I would certainly consider settling down here; not even consider, it’s going to happen. I think I’ll move in the next five to ten years, God willing. I’m here to bolster the film industry – that is a ten-year process – and I can’t do that from overseas. I need to be in-country, on the continent,” he shared.
He went on to outline his intentions to live in Accra, Sierra Leone’s capital Freetown, and Zanzibar, stating, “I’m going to go where they’re telling stories – that’s really important.” Elba underlined the significance of correcting the prevailing narratives about Africa shaped by outsiders.
“If you watch any film that has to do with Africa, all you see is trauma, stories of slavery, colonization, and war. But when you come to Africa, you realize that it’s not true. It’s crucial that we own our stories – our traditions, cultures, languages, and the nuances between them. The world doesn’t know that,” he concluded.
Known for his powerful performances in films such as “Beasts of No Nation,” “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom,” and his role as Heimdall in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Elba is poised to make a meaningful impact on the African film landscape.
