“I have longed to see the story of Nelson Mandela, and his decades-long fight and sacrifice for freedom, equality and justice told in an authentic, complex and revelatory way. It is a story that is more relevant to humanity today, than ever. I am thrilled that a director of Antoine Fuqua’s skill, creativity, and integrity has agreed to take on this challenging task,” Mac Maharaj said.
Fuqua began filming in South Africa, interviewing several of Mandela’s former comrades and other crucial persons who knew the man affectionately known as “Madiba”.
Lorton Entertainment, the company behind films such as “Rooney” and “Supersonic,” is funding the production. The producers are Arthur Landon of Lorton Entertainment and Mark Bauch. Maharaj serves as executive producer alongside Gordon Metz, Hipster Media’s Markus Davies, and Zig Zag Productions’ Matt Graff and Danny Fenton.
“During a time of political uncertainty and unrest around the world, this film aims to rekindle the influence of a truly great leader and show how a humble but determined lawyer became one of the greatest politicians in history,” said Landon and Bauch.
“We are incredibly fortunate and excited to be partnered with Antoine, who has an incredible vision to show the world a side of Mandela we’ve never seen before, and Mac Maharaj, a true South African icon who fought the struggle alongside Mandela, and is a resource unlike any other,” reported Variety.