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Morris Chestnut to play African king

Johannesburg - He's what many women consider the perfect antidote to the winter chill – a tall, dark and rich cup of hot cocoa, if you will. And he's just landed in South Africa.

Ladies, say hello to US film star Morris Chestnut.

The man whose movie credits include The Best Man and Think Like a Man is in Mzansi to star and produce Asylum Down, a film about a modern-day African royal family with gold and platinum reserves on its land. The business is taken over by a reluctant heir who pushes it into the ruthless world markets, which could be to the family's detriment.

"When I heard about the concept, I thought it was a great way to stretch myself as an actor", says Chestnut.

'Get the accent right'

"It's also the progress and the beautiful architecture South Africa has which I wanted to show."

As part of his research, Chestnut has taken a trip to the Royal Bafokeng as they will take inspiration from that nation.

The film is the brainchild of Intersexions creator Uzanekosi Mahlangu and producer Samad Davis.

Originally Davis wanted to do a film about a Ghanaian kingdom, but Mahlangu convinced him otherwise, reports SowetanLive. The two are hoping to get funding for the movie from the Department of Trade and Industry in South Africa where at least 75% of the filming will take place.

With many international stars having received flak for their accents, the Nurse Jackie actor seemed calm about the sensitivity of the accent debate.

"There is nothing you can do that won't be criticised. However, my only thought as an actor is to have it completely down and get the accent right."

The husband and father of two said that he would be coming back for more accent training and cultural understanding.

As for locals getting a slice of the international spotlight, Mahlangu said: "The film will be internationally released and therefore it’s all about who is in it."

Asylum Down
begins pre-production in January next year.

- Channel24
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