Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom is coming at a time where most of the world is praying for an ailing Mandela. In the coveted role is Idris Elba, who has some tough shoes to fill given the timely nature of the film, and the general presence that Mandela exudes.
Going by the trailer it seems like Idris Elba nails the accent, at least. For those not in the know Nelson Mandela is the anti-apartheid crusader who was imprisoned and then released. He became a symbol of freedom for South Africa, and subsequently became the president for South Africa.
In typical trailer fashion, Mandela: The Lone Walk To Freedom is mostly voice over by Elba, which shows off the distinct accent of Mandela.
The film is directed by Justin Chadwick ( The First Grader ). It’s said the biopic will focus mostly on Mandela’s youth and his courageous journey to freedom, and the event that lead to being elected president of South Africa.
“Approaching every accent is always the same, you know? I learn to do my homework. With Mandela it’s slightly different, because everyone knows how he sounds and what he sounds like. So there was definitely some more detailed work to do on that. I had an interesting time working on the film. I thought it was a great script, and a great piece of material to be a part of.”
Mandela: The Lone Walk To Freedom opens on November 29. The timing of the theatrical teaser isn’t lost on anyone given Nelson Mandela’s ailing health.
Back in June it was reported that Nelson Mandela was in critical condition after his condition deteriorated. At the time it was 16 days after the icon entered the hospital.
Following the initial reports it was said that Mandela’s health had improved, but by July Mandela’s wife Winnie Madikizela-Mandela said , “It is extremely painful to see him going through what he’s going through now. But it’s God’s wish. The one time he did speak was to tell my mom to sit down because she was standing at the edge of his bed.”
Will you be seeing the Mandela biopic?
