Idris Elba chats about his latest film 'Luther: The Fallen Sun' and why he's 'always in SA'
Saying that a month has not passed since he was last in South Africa, Hollywood actor Idris Elba recently opened up about his latest movie and why he's always “in and out” of Mzansi.
Chatting to Collette Prince of Arena Holding's Spotlight, the UK-born actor said he believes South Africa has some of the best creatives on the continent.
“I was just there. I was in Joburg about two weeks ago. I get in and out... I sneak in and out. I miss it, I miss working in South Africa. I can't wait to come and do more work.”
“Creative teams in South Africa are probably the best on the continent right now. So, yeah... respect,” said Idris.
Luther: The Fallen Sun is a stand-alone movie adapted from the TV series where Idris plays London detective John Luther who takes on a case that might spell the end for him. He spoke about how he prepared himself for the film.
“I'm a producer on this film and my preparation is different from my preparation as an actor. As an actor I just roll up my sleeves and get into it. I know the character, I've been playing him for a long time. But as a producer, there were these touchdowns that were new skill sets for me. Just being part of the think-tank of what makes this better... why we are spending this money and time to go to a bigger screen. That was about understanding the story on a [different] level.
The film is directed by Jamie Payne and written by the show’s creator, Neil Cross.
In addition to having to learn new skills as a producer, Idris said he had to learn to scuba dive and can now hold his breath for four minutes.
Watch the official trailer below: