David Oyelowo Takes Center Stage in London with Coriolanus, Aims to Enhance African Filmmaking
In a compelling new production of Shakespeare’s Coriolanus at London’s National Theatre, renowned actor David Oyelowo is set to showcase his talent once again. Oyelowo, who has been in the limelight for his role in Lawmen: Bass Reeves, discussed his passion for boosting the African film industry during a candid interview while preparing for this intense theatrical performance.
The esteemed actor, who has Nigerian roots, is adamant about the importance of empowering local filmmakers and ensuring that there is no “cultural colonialism” in the process. “It has to benefit the local communities,” he emphasized, highlighting the significance of uplifting those on the ground rather than merely extracting resources for personal gain.
In his portrayal of Caius Martius Coriolanus, a Roman general grappling with the tumultuous politics of his time, Oyelowo has delved into the complexities of a character defined by his military successes but unable to navigate the treacherous waters of Roman governance. Directed by Olivier Award winner Lyndsey Turner, the production promises to deliver a captivating experience when it officially opens on September 24.
Oyelowo’s commitment to advancing filmmaking in Africa is supported by a collaboration with friends and fellow actors, including Idris Elba. He and Elba have been discussing innovative ways to cultivate filming opportunities on the continent. They have no immediate plans to create joint endeavors but are determined to forge paths that enhance infrastructure for filmmakers.
The actor shared details about his plans for a project titled Biafra, which reflects on the Nigeria Civil War from the perspective of fictional characters. Together with director Ngozi Onwurah and acclaimed writer Bola Agbaje, Oyelowo hopes to unveil stories that speak to contemporary issues stemming from historical conflicts, emphasizing the need for a respectful and authentic narrative.
Despite his current focus on Coriolanus, Oyelowo is enthusiastic about the rich storytelling potential that Africa offers. While he recognizes the technical challenges that some regions face compared to Hollywood, he believes that with the right nurturing and investment, African storytelling can reach new audiences worldwide.
“I value the continent,” he remarked, noting that Africa is filled with “poetry and vibrancy.” Oyelowo aims to uncover and share these narratives with global audiences, believing there is no excuse for not amplifying African stories in a diverse media landscape.
His performance in Coriolanus is not only a personal journey but serves as a commentary on today’s political climate, as he draws parallels between the ancient Roman political landscape and the current state of global politics. By exploring themes of personality-driven governance versus substantive policies, Oyelowo hopes to engage audiences in a dialogue about today’s leadership challenges.
As he prepares to step into the role of Coriolanus, Oyelowo remains committed to shaping the future of filmmaking in Africa. With the production running until November 9, he is keen on enriching the discourse around representation and storytelling in the wider film industry, supporting the notion that diverse voices must be heard to foster a richer cultural narrative.