Lupita Nyong’o‘s New York Times bestselling debut childrens book “Sulwe” will be transformed into a Netflix animated musical.
The award-winning actress took to twitter to announce the news.
“‘Sulwe’ is going to be an animated movie!!,” Nyong’o writes. “Thank you to the readers of all ages who have joined #Sulwe on her starry ride. I’m so excited for this next adventure on Netflix!”
The inspiration behind ‘Sulwe’ stems from the actress’s personal battle to see the beauty in her darker skin as a child.
“The story of Sulwe is one that is very close to my heart,” Nyong’o says in a statement. “Growing up, I was uncomfortable in my dark skin. I rarely saw anyone who looked like me in the aspirational pages of books and magazines, or even on TV. It was a long journey for me to arrive at self-love. Sulwe is a mirror for dark-skinned children to see themselves, a window for those who may not be familiar with colorism, to have understanding and empathy, and an invitation for all who feel different and unseen to recognize their innate beauty and value. I am thrilled that the book is being adapted into an animated musical that we hope inspires children all around the world to celebrate their uniqueness.”
The story follows 5-year-old Sulwe who struggles with seeing herself as beautiful. Sulwe is the darkest one in her family and school. One night the young girl taken on a starry night adventure where she learns the story of the sisters’ Night and Day. On this journey, Sulwe learns the meaning of self-love and that true beauty shines from within.
The film’s release date has yet to be announced as well as the actors voicing the characters. But Nyong’o will serve as producer for the musical adaptation.
Watch the actress read her best-selling children’s book in an episode of Netflix’s Jr. Series, Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices!
