Hackney export Idris Elba makes directorial debut

Pic: Joel Meadows/Flickr

Hackney-born actor Idris Elba made his directorial debut today with the release of Mumford & Sons’ latest music video, Lover Of The Light.

In addition to directing the piece, Elba plays its protagonist, a visually impaired man running through the countryside in a smart suit without his guide dog or walking stick.

Elba uses several visual techniques in the video, including soft focus and tracking shots, displaying a careful attention to colour.

Taking to Twitter to announce the release, Elba said: “I want to share this with you… I wrote & directed this video for ‪@MumfordAndSons Very proud, amazing song.”

The acoustic ballad is taken from Mumford & Sons’ chart-topping second album, Babel.

Scriptwriter Dan Cadan collaborated with Elba on the production, working band members’ ideas into the project. The video was shot in Wales.

Growing up in Canning Town, East London, Elba has worked as an actor for over a decade – appearing in programs like The Wire and Luther. In 2006, Elba ventured into the field of music under the DJ name ‘Driis’ and has since released several EPs.

Elba will start work on the recently confirmed third series of Luther in November.

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