Idris Elba's Nelson Mandela Biopic Gets a Start Date

After sitting in development limbo for 15 years, a Nelson Mandela biopic based on the South African president’s autobiography, A Long Walk to Freedom, is finally moving forward with a May 26 start date. Golden Globe-winning actor Idris Elba (Luther, The Wire) and actress Naomie Harris (Skyfall, Pirates of the Caribbean) will portray Nelson and Winnie Mandela in the film which will be directed by Justin Chadwick (The Other Boleyn Girl). 


The project is being backed by South African producer Anant Singh, who originally acquired the movie rights years ago, as well as Sarafina! co-producer David Thompson. The film, which has Mandela's full support, is based on a script by William Nicholson and will cover the entire life and political career of the iconic president, including the 27 years he was incarcerated.