30/09/2024
SORRY, FOLKS BUT IDRIS ELBA IS PERFECT TO PLAY OKONKWO IN 'THINGS FALL APART' TV SERIES
I really don't understand what the fuss is about. As for me, a full blooded Igbo man, I am ecstatic.
Idris Elba is set to star and executive produce a TV series adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s literary classic, Things Fall Apart.
Elba has been slated to play the novel’s protagonist, Okonkwo, a leader of the Igbo village, Umuofia who battled with his low tolerance for weakness in the wake of the coming of British missionaries, dismayed by colonial rule.
This for me is awesome news as it is a chance for an African masterpiece to be showcased on the global stage.
For me, the lead character Okonkwo is one of the most complex characters ever written and you have to choose an actor who can exhude such gravitas. Peter Edochie, my favourite Nollywood actor ever, gave a blisteringly perfect portrayal of the iconic patriarch in the Nigerian made TV series back in 1987 and Idris has very big shoes to fill.
Critics say that Chitewel Ejiofor would be a better choice but, with all due respect to him, I don't feel he has that intimidating presence that Okonkwo has in the book. Idris Elba exhudes equal parts menace and charm and is a perfect fit. There is a reason there was a huge worldwide clamour for him to play James Bond.
But I agree with critics who fear the cultural aspect of the seminal book may be watered down by Hollywood especially when it comes to dialogue. Hopefully, Idris will have a competent language and voice coach and an effort should be made to make sure the costume design and locations look as authentic as possible. Hell, even comic book movie Captain America: Civil War did a great job turning Atlanta into Lagos!
So let's see how it goes. As for me, I can't wait!
- PeterIke Shadowblack
According to Variety, Elba has recently launched a production company, 22Summers, in partnership with Gina Carter. The banner is set to serve as an executive producer for the series, alongside David Oyelowo and Amanda N'Duka, who will also hold executive producer roles under Yoruba Saxon. Additionally, Ben Forkner, Dayo Ogunyemi, and notably Achebe Masterworks, primarily managed by the late novelist's family estate, are attached as executive producers.
