From Glitz to Glamour, Idris Elba Shines Spotlight on Future of African Cinema
Known for his commanding presence in front of the camera and his versatility on screen, Idris Elba has long been a steadfast advocate for African cinema, both on and offscreen. At this year’s Africa Cinema Summit in Ghana’s capital Accra, the Golden Globe-winning star took on a new mantle – that of ambassador extraordinaire, championing the importance of African storytellers and their role in shaping the continent’s movie industry.
With a reputation built on films like the Oscar-nominated “Luther” and “Nelson Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom,” Elba’s passion for African narrative is palpable. Over the years, he’s used his platform to lift the profile of African-themed films, such as John Akomfrah’s “The Last Angel,” and has produced several content-driven projects through his firm, IE7 Productions Group.
At the summit, Elba delivered a bold call to action, demanding that African filmmakers prioritize international recognition, not just focus on global audiences. African cinema, he emphasized, must first be built-to-last on its home grounds. “We need [to fill] the [cinemas] with people first,” he stressed.
In a conversation with Afghan news agency AFP, he lamented the under-repayment of African films on online platforms, instead urging investors to support homegrown studios and talent. Elba believes that this would bring a more diverse range to the global stage.
Where others might view challenges blocking progress, Elba seized opportunities, hailing what he called the “passionate, grassroots” movements in African film-making driven by young creators using cutting-edge technology, like “making films on their iPhones.”
As he addressed attending filmmakers, Elba demurred, “Just DO IT,” – encouraging any aspiring filmmaker to seize each moment, stating, as a testament to his devotion to storytelling. The transformative journey began for him childhood, working multiple jobs towards his acting ambitions in diverse London.
Breakthrough was cemented by roles – like Russell “Stringing” Bell in “Guitar” Wire, that critically acclaimed series – subsequently, he gained the limelight with British crime – series “Luther'” that earned him a glint of golden glory
Years of experience have culminated in him being admired, respected and powerful and actor on the global market, and also a model of African origin, acknowledged that he had a part in ensuring the most Africa stories reach a broader universe.
“We still have too far to go,” emphasized Elba as the summits lights went off an unforgettable vision was revealed
A vision not of any accolades or prizes just of a movie industry’s prosperity, thriving on in-depth connections with the perspectives of African viewers and sustaining its global interest. Will this vision come to actuality? Time will test the resolve and vision expressed by Idris Elm, but as it would, the Africa Cinema Council is a vital part is being played, in paving the way for African writers and filmmakers.
