Idris Elba is an enigma.
By Mumbua Nzula Nzyoka.
In January this year, Idris Elba stood before the British parliament and addressed the lack of diversity in British television. With an estimated 40 films under his belt, 6 of which will be released this year, Elba is one of Britain’s most prominent actors and therefore the best man to address parliament. Watch the full video here.
However, that’s not the only job many of his fans want him to have. Since the premiere of “Spectre” last year, there have been rumours going around that Idris Elba might be the next James Bond. It is not a leap, Daniel Craig (the current Bond) and Amy Pascal former Sony boss have both suggested he might be fit for the job. Whether these rumours will become reality is unclear, but what is clear is this;
“Idris Elba is an actor, writer, producer, director, DJ, designer, ladies’ man, man’s man (why not?) and 007 in waiting.” – Johnny Davis, Esquire May 2016.
Here are two series and three films starring Idris Elba that you should watch.
Series
- The Wire (2002 – 2008)
Best Quote: “You know, Avon, you gotta think about what we got in this game for, man. Huh? Was it the rep? Was it so our names could ring out on some fucking ghetto street corners, man? Naw, man. There’s games beyond the fucking game.”
Character: Russell ‘Stringer’ Bell.
- Luther (2010 – present)
Best Quote: “I have heard that one before; lack of conscience dressed up as philosophy.”
Character: DCI John Luther
Films
- Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013)
Best Quote: “I have walked a long walk to freedom. It has been a lonely road, and it is not over yet. I know that my country, was not made to be a land of hatred. No one is born hating another person because the colour of his skin. People learn to hate. They can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart.”
Character: Nelson Mandela
Best Quote: “A boy has hands to strangle and fingers to pull triggers. Why you saying a boy is nothing? huh? A boy is very, very dangerous. You understand me? Very dangerous, you understand?”
Character: Commandant
- RocknRolla (2008)
Best Quotes: “If I could be half the human being Bob is at the cost of being a poof, I’d have to think about it. Not for very long, but I’d have to pause.”
Character: Mumbles
Honourable Mention.
Thor (2011)
Character: Heimdall
