Actor Kingsley Ben-Adir has made a name for himself by portraying iconic black leaders.
From playing former US president Barack Obama in The Comey Rule to starring as civil rights activist Malcolm X in One Night In Miami, Ben-Adir has taken on impactful roles. However, even for him, the thought of becoming Bob Marley was intimidating.
When the opportunity arose, he initially turned it down, feeling that the weight and risk were too great. Ziggy Marley, Bob’s son and one of the guardians of his legacy, also expressed understanding, acknowledging the intense responsibility and seriousness of such a role.
The search for the right person to play Bob Marley lasted more than 30 years. Several directors and producers tried and failed to bring the reggae legend to the big screen. Even Bob’s widow, Rita, came close at one point.
Finally, Reinaldo Marcus Green was approached by Paramount Studios and felt an instant connection to the material. The film, titled One Love, focuses on a two-year timespan in Marley’s life, rather than being a traditional cradle-to-grave biopic.
The film opens in 1976, during a time of political turmoil in Jamaica, when Marley still tried to remain neutral. After organizing a concert for peace, his “safe house” was invaded by gunmen just days before the show, resulting in injuries to himself and his wife, Rita.
Ultimately, Marley exiled himself in London and poured his experiences and emotions into the album Exodus, which contains some of his most well-known hits. The album is considered a landmark in reggae and rock and roll history.
Ben-Adir, who initially had concerns due to his lack of musical training, eventually took on the challenging role. Despite not singing or dancing, and not being able to play the guitar, he was given 10 weeks to prepare for the role.
While filming the Barbie movie in Leavesden, the actor was granted permission to study and prepare, setting up a “Bob Station” behind the scenes. The preparation was essential, as the Marley family wanted the film to be as authentic as possible, portraying the musician’s Trench Town dialect.
Ben-Adir spent significant time studying footage and archive interviews, alongside learning to play the guitar and writing songs of his own. His dedication to embodying Marley’s spirit and talent was impressive, despite the challenges he faced.
The film aims to reveal the internal struggles and experiences of Bob Marley, demystifying the legend and ensuring audiences understand the full scope of who he was as a person, not just as a musician.
One Love is set to be released in cinemas on 14 February.
