The highly anticipated film adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s ‘Children of Blood and Bone’ has added more Nigerian stars to its already impressive ensemble. Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, the film is set for release in IMAX on January 15, 2027, bringing the magical world of Orïsha to life.
Joining the cast of ‘Children of Blood and Bone’ are singer Ayra Starr, veteran Nollywood actor Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), rising star Pamilerin Ayodeji, and Shamz Garuba. Each of them brings something unique to the project, further solidifying Nollywood’s presence in the global film industry.
Ayra Starr, who made her acting debut in ‘Christmas in Lagos’, takes another step into the world of cinema with this major international role. RMD, fresh off his performance in ‘The Black Book,’ continues to make waves beyond Nollywood, adding another Hollywood project to his repertoire.
Rising actors Pamilerin Ayodeji and Shamz Garuba, who were cast through an open casting call, are also joining the epic adaptation. Ayodeji, who starred in the fantasy adventure film ‘Mikolo’, expressed her excitement about landing the role: “The only two words that come to mind every time I think about the fact that I was chosen to be on the cast are ‘grateful’ and ‘honored.’ The idea that everyone (or at least a majority of everyone) on the casting team agreed that I was a perfect fit for the role is almost unfathomable and I do not take it for granted at all. As glad as I am to have this opportunity, I’m fully aware that this is just the beginning for me, and I intend to put my best foot forward.”
Garuba, best known for his role in the crime drama ‘Crime and Justice Lagos,’ shared similar sentiments about the journey leading up to his casting: “It’s been a long but fulfilling process, and I’m just grateful. These are times we prayed for. Regarding how I feel, I am grateful, excited, and ready to bring Tomi Adeyemi’s world of Orïsha to life.”
The Nollywood talents will appear alongside an already star-studded lineup, which includes Thuso Mbedu, Amandla Stenberg, Damson Idris, Tosin Cole, Viola Davis, Cynthia Erivo, Idris Elba, Lashana Lynch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, Diaana Babnicova, and Bukky Bakray.
‘Children of Blood and Bone’ tells the story of Zélie, a young girl fighting to restore magic to Orïsha after it was wiped out by a ruthless king. The film explores themes of oppression, resilience, and the fight for justice, making it a powerful and timely fantasy epic.
The production is set to begin in South Africa with Lagos, Nigeria, also confirmed as a filming location. This decision further cements the film’s connection to its African roots and brings a level of authenticity that fans of the book will surely appreciate. Thus, ‘Children of Blood and Bone’ is one film we will be keeping our eyes on next year!
