Renowned movie director and patron of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Andy Boyo, has shared how he was expelled from school because of the legendary Fela Anikulapo Kuti.
Fela, a Nigerian artist and political advocate, passed away in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1997 at 58.
Fela is seen as the main creator of Afrobeat, a Nigerian music style that mixes West African rhythms with American funk and jazz.
Boyo, however, is preparing to bring the iconic life of the Afrobeats legend to the silver screen in a much-awaited biographical film.
After three years of planning, Boyo has obtained the rights to the music and is ready to begin filming in Nigeria, the UK, and the US in 2025.
Rumours suggest the high-profile movie will have an extensive cast, including 27 actresses portraying Fela’s wives.
Boyo, recognized for his successful films such as “Untamed” and “Spirit of Assassins,” will also direct, write, and produce the biographical film.
Speaking on his love for Fela and the project he is working on, Boyo said “this project is a labour of love.”
Boyo said: “Fela has always been my passion, I was expelled from Glorious College, Ibadan, for sneaking out to watch him perform at the University of Ibadan’s ‘Havana Night.’ Fela was my mentor; I admired his personality and music. When I returned to the school, I got expelled from school.”
The movie will tell the story of Fela’s existence, battles, and victories as the ruler of Afrobeats. Thanks to Boyo’s skill and commitment, this film is set to revolutionize the world of cinema, challenging the status quo of African film.
