After crafting two of television’s most iconic characters, Stringer Bell and Omar Little have recently boarded two of our most highly-anticipated feature projects. First up, after his powerful debut Sin Nombre and elegant adaptation of Jane Eyre, we’ve been waiting as to what’s next for Cary Fukunaga. After circling a variety of projects, he’s finally settled on his third feature, Beasts of No Nation. An adaptation of Uzodinma Iweala’s novel, the film has now found its leading man.
According to Deadline, Idris Elba, coming off of Pacific Rim and gearing up for Mandela: A Long Walk to Freedom, has been set for the leading role of Commander in the story that follows “a young boy, Agu, who, when civil war engulfs his West African country is forced to join a unit of mercenary fighters. Not only must Agu face the death of his father and disappearance of his mother and sister, but must also join a life of violence and brutality. Agu befriends a mute boy named Strika and together they face the crimes and hardships of war.” Elba also plans to produce the project, but no start date has confirmed yet.
In other Wire-related news, following Spike Lee crossing his Kickstarter goal, the filmmaker has added his latest cast member to the untitled project. Michael K. Williams, who has recently enjoyed success on Boardwalk Empire, will reteam with the director after Miracle at St. Anna. There’s no details on his role yet, but he’ll be joining the leading duo of Stephen Tyrone Williams (Lucky Guy) and Zaraah Abrahams (Black Girl in Paris) for the non-vampire film about blood addiction. We’re as intrigued as you and while we await details, one can see the filmmaker’s updated list of essential films (this time adding in female directors) directly below.
