Renowned actor Idris Elba, known for his roles in Luther and Hijack, is stepping into the director’s chair for the upcoming short film ‘Dust To Dreams’. This project brings together an ensemble cast including singer Seal, Nollywood stars Nse Ikpe-Etim, Eku Edewor, Atlanta Bridget Johnson, and former Nigerian Idol contestant Constance Olatunde. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Lagos, Nigeria, the film explores the poignant relationship between a mother and her teenage daughter as they navigate the girl’s first encounter with her father.
Dust To Dreams bringing together creative powerhouses
The collaboration between Mo Abudu’s EbonyLife Films and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) through its Creative Africa Nexus (Canex) initiative underscores a commitment to fostering African talent and storytelling. Spearheaded by Elba’s direction, the film promises a compelling narrative crafted by Mo Abudu, with Seal adding his multifaceted talent to the mix. As both executive producer and producer, Mo Abudu brings her wealth of experience to the project, supported by supervising producer Heidi Uys and a dedicated production team.
America’s Got Talent Judge Seal, whose Nigerian heritage adds a personal dimension to the project, brings his Grammy-winning prowess to the screen, building on previous film and TV appearances. Elba, a Golden Globe winner of Sierra Leonean and Ghanaian descent, continues his mission to champion African storytelling, following his directorial debut with the acclaimed movie Yardie. The collaboration between Elba, Abudu, and Afreximbank underscores a shared vision to elevate African voices and narratives on the global stage, supported by Afreximbank’s commitment to empowering the continent’s creative industries.
In expressing her excitement about the collaboration, Mo Abudu emphasizes the significance of ‘Dust To Dreams’, a project close to her heart. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of Afreximbank, echoes this sentiment, highlighting the institution’s dedication to fostering Africa’s creative economy through initiatives like the Canex Programme. As ‘Dust To Dreams’ takes shape, it represents not only a creative endeavor but also a testament to the power of collaboration in advancing Africa’s cultural landscape.