Idris Elba stars as South African President Nelson Mandela in the film based on his autobiography, which chronicles his early life, coming of age, education, and 27 years in prison.
President Obama is planning a special White House screening of The Weinstein Co.’s Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.
Stars Idris Elba and Naomie Harris are set to attend the Nov. 7 event, along with Nelson Mandela‘s daughters Zindzi and Zenani Mandela.
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Obama paid a tribute visit to Robben Island jail in June, the facility where Mandela was imprisoned for nearly two decades. The film premiered Sunday at an event in Johannesburg that was attended by Mandela’s former wife, Winnie Mandela.
Said TWC co-chairman Harvey Weinstein: “Knowing what a strong relationship President Obama has with President Mandela, it’s an honor for this film to be shown at the White House.”
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The awards contender is based on Nelson Mandela’s autobiography of the same name, which chronicles his early life, coming of age, education and 27 years in prison before becoming president and working to rebuild the country’s once segregated society. Justin Chadwick directed the movie, which had its world premiere earlier this year at the 2013 Toronto Film Festival.
The film also is set to screen Nov. 10 at the upcoming AFI Festival and will have its U.S. theatrical release Nov. 29 in New York and Los Angeles.
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