John Boyega is teaming up with Netflix to create a series of feature films set in Africa.
Boyega founded his UpperRoom production company in 2016 with the aim of producing content from west Africa, reflecting his Nigerian heritage, and east Africa, in line with his production partner Yara Shaikh’s Sudanese roots.
Now, the Star Wars actor has signed a development deal with Netflix for three non-English language films, two set in Nigeria and one from Egypt, with UpperRoom developing further projects based on African books, Nigerian ‘Nollywood’ films, screenplays and myths.
“I am thrilled to partner with Netflix to develop a slate of non-English language feature films focused on African stories and my team and I are excited to develop original material. We are proud to grow this arm of our business with a company that shares our vision,” John said in a press release.
David Kosse, Netflix’s vice president of international film, added: “Africa has a rich history in storytelling and for Netflix, this partnership with John and UpperRoom presents an opportunity to further our investment in the continent while bringing unique African stories to our members both in Africa and around the world.”
The 27-year-old’s next movie role is in the legal drama Naked Singularity, due out later this year (2020).
