Idris Elba preps Mandela, My Dad and Me doc

Idris Elba is making Mandela, My Dad and Me, a one-off doc about his life and preparation for playing Nelson Mandela in the hit movie Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.

Elba’s prodco Green Door Pictures, UK indie Woodcut Media and Shine regional division Shine North are making the 1x60mins film.

Content financier Bob & Co. are part-financing the doc, which will be sold internationally by Content Media.

The show will follow the Luther and The Wire star as he connects with South African music culture by way of preparing for his starring role in Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.

It also covers how the star deals with the death of his father, who passed away at the same time.

There will be a screening of the film at the British Film Institute in early April, before a limited theatrical release. No broadcaster is attached.

Nicholas Yearwood, head of development at Green Door, said: “Daniel Vernon’s film perfectly captures Idris’ personal and professional challenges, whilst he tackled arguably the most iconic and important role of his career.”

Alex Connock, managing director at Shine North, added: “What we love about this film is that it’s full on celebrity access – but without the sugar coating. It’s just real life; incredibly watchable, musical and moving.”