‘Top Boy’ Star Jasmine Jobson to Lead Biopic ‘In the Shadows’ as British-Somali Boxer Ramla Ali; True Brit Boards as U.K. Distributor (EXCLUSIVE)

As a cinephile who has spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of stories that cinema offers, I find myself particularly intrigued by the upcoming film “In the Shadows,” starring the exceptionally talented Jasmine Jobson. Having grown up in London myself, I can appreciate the authenticity and raw emotion she brings to her roles, as highlighted by her captivating performance in “Top Boy.”


Actress Jasmine Jobson, who won a BAFTA for her role in “Top Boy” and was more recently featured in Andrea Arnold’s film “Bird,” which premiered at Cannes, has been cast to portray Ramla Ali, a trailblazing Somali-British professional boxer, model, and UNICEF Ambassador, in the upcoming movie “In the Shadows.” Letitia Wright, who was initially connected with the project when it was first announced last year, is no longer involved.

Filming is currently underway in London for the upcoming feature, where Finn Cole (“Last Breath,” “Peaky Blinders,” “Fast & Furious 9”) takes on the role of Jobson’s husband, Richard Moore. Meanwhile, Gershwyn Eustache Jr (“Andor,” “Small Axe,” “Fortitude”) portrays Jobson’s boxing instructor.

As a passionate admirer, I’m thrilled to share that the narrative feature debut of Emmy Award and three-time BAFTA winner Anthony Wonke (“Dettori,” “Syria: Children on the Frontline,” “Ronaldo”) is entitled “In the Shadows.” This film is a joint production by BAFTA winner and Oscar nominee Lee Magiday (“The Favourite,” “The Lobster”), Madeleine Sanderson (“Being AP,” “Fighting for a City”), and Civic Studios (“Christmas Karma, Schirkoa: In Lies We Trust”). Notably, the film’s subject Ali will also serve as an executive producer. I can hardly wait to witness this remarkable collaboration unfold!

The movie is jointly funded by Civic Studios, Affine Films, and The World We Want Studios. On the other hand, True Brit Entertainment will be involved in its production for the United Kingdom. Altitude is responsible for handling international distribution of the film.

Titled “In the Shadows,” this movie narrates the real-life journey of Ali, a London-based refugee who secretly pursued boxing against her conservative Muslim parents’ wishes to become the pioneering Somali-British professional boxing champion. Her training ground was a boxing club where she crossed paths with Richard Moore, a man who later converted to Islam, demonstrating his deep affection for her. The film delves into Ali’s relentless determination to triumph over numerous challenges within and beyond the ring – a resolve that propelled her to be the first boxer, male or female, to represent Somalia at the 2020 Olympics and also engage in the inaugural professional female boxing match in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, it portrays the love story between Ali and Moore as they navigate racial and cultural differences together.

Jobson expressed his great privilege in assuming the role of portraying Ramla, and being entrusted to aid in the sharing of her extraordinary narrative. It’s not just about highlighting her skill, resilience, and tenacity as a trailblazing athlete, but also as an incredibly motivating Somali woman who has triumphantly surmounted immense hardship. Her journey as a refugee arriving in the U.K. is significant and carries the potential to enlighten and empower people amidst such widespread discord. I’m ecstatic about getting started on this project.

As a film enthusiast, I found myself captivated by Jasmine’s exceptional portrayal of Jaq in ‘Top Boy.’ Her deep understanding of the struggles and resilience that come with growing up in London resonates profoundly. The authenticity, grit, and raw emotion she brings to her performances are not just acting skills; they’re a testament to her life experiences. I eagerly anticipate seeing her bring my character to life on screen.

The movie is overseen by Zygi Kamasa for True Brit Entertainment, Will Clarke, Andy Mayson, and Mike Runagall for Altitude, Anushka Shah for Civic Studios, Richard Fearn and Jane Reid Fearn from Affine Films, Natasha Mudhar from The World We Want Studios, Anne Sheehan, Ali, and Richard Moore as its producers.

Wonke praises Jasmine Jobson, saying she’s undoubtedly one of Britain’s top and most captivating actors, bringing a remarkable blend of intelligence and raw emotional sincerity to her performances. “Ramla’s tale is about resilience and courage in the face of adversity,” Wonke continues, “and we couldn’t be happier to have an actor who so deeply resonates and identifies with Ramla’s story in such a powerful manner.”

Magiday’s statement beautifully conveys that Ramla’s life story is incredibly inspiring, filled with self-assurance and determination. From a young refugee, she transformed into a Boxing Champion and established her charity, Sisters Club, paving the way for future generations of young women. By sharing her story on screen, we aim to spark passion and courage in all who dare to dream big.

As a passionate cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that the screenplay for this upcoming movie is penned by none other than Ursula Rani Sarma, a talented playwright and screenwriter known for her work on “Bodkin” and “Delicious.” The cinematography will be handled by Christopher Aoun, whose stunning visuals graced “Capernaum,” promising a visually captivating experience. Additionally, the casting duties are entrusted to Kharmel Cochrane, a seasoned casting director who has worked on projects such as “A Quiet Place: Day One,” “Saltburn,” and “Rye Lane.”

“During this sports-filled summer, we’re thrilled to share that we’re bringing the captivating true story of Ramla, along with her British sporting achievement, to the silver screen,” said True Brit CEO Zygi Kamasa. “This film unites some of the UK’s freshest talent, both in front of and behind the camera, to narrate this extraordinary tale of resilience and determination.”

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2024-08-06 11:47