Idris Elba, the renowned Hollywood actor, is poised to direct a short film set in Lagos titled “Dust To Dreams,” in collaboration with Nigerian filmmaker Mo Abudu.
According to a report by Deadline published on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, the film is a joint venture between Abudu’s EbonyLife Films and the African Export Import Bank (Afreximbank) through its Creative Africa Nexus (Canex) initiative.
“Dust to Dreams” explores the dynamic between a mother and her teenage daughter as they encounter the girl’s father for the first time.
Joining the cast of the film are British-Nigerian music sensation Seal, along with Nollywood luminaries Nse Ikpe-Etim, Eku Edewor, Atlanta Bridget Johnson, and former Nigerian Idol contestant Constance Olatunde.
Abudu, the brain behind the project, will fulfill the roles of both executive producer and producer, with Heidi Uys serving as supervising producer. Co-producers include Temidayo Makanjuola, Inem King, and Vanessa Demme.
Expressing her excitement for the collaboration, Abudu stated, “I am delighted to be working with Afreximbank and this incredibly talented team. Dust To Dreams is a story close to my heart, and I’m thrilled to bring it to life with such passionate collaborators.”
This project marks the first significant production resulting from a co-production agreement inked by Abudu and Elba through their respective production companies, EbonyLife Media and Green Door Pictures, in 2023.
Elba, known for his commitment to positive change, emphasized the partnership’s aim to provide free, top-tier industry education to aspiring storytellers. He expressed his dedication to amplifying authentic voices and promoting inclusivity in media, particularly from Africa and its diaspora.
PHOTO CREDIT: Pulse.ng/Deadline.com/gettyimages