‘Sprinter’ from Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith’s Overbrook Entertaiment, screens as part of BFI’s African Odysseys Programme

The BFI announced that acclaimed sports drama , “Sprinter” from Executive Producers Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith will receive a special screening at BFI Southbank on February 16th at 14:00. The screening is part of BFI Southbank’s ongoing African Odysseys programme, which showcases inspirational work by and about the African diaspora.

UK Hip Hop Artist and writer Akala will host a Q&A following the screening with director Storm Saulter, lead actor Dale Elliot and producer Rob Maylor.
Written and Directed by Storm Saulter (Better Mus Come), the film’s all-star cast includes newcomer Dale Elliott, Kadeem Wilson (Ghett’ A Life), Dennis Titus (The Mighty Quinn), Shantol Jackson (Yardie), Bryshere Y. Gray (Empire, The New Edition Story), with Lorraine Toussaint (Selma, Orange Is The New Black), and David Alan Grier (The Cool Kids, The Carmichael Show, In Living Color).

Producers are Robert Maylor, Clarence Hammond, and Jamal Watson. Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith Executive Produce alongside NBA Veteran and Media Personality Richard Jefferson.

The film, shot on location in Jamaica, stars newcomer Dale Elliot as Akeem Sharp. Nicknamed the Rasta Rocket for his once-in-a-generation speed, Akeem is set to be Jamaica’s next big track-and-field sensation. Akeem hopes his rise in athletics will take him to the U.S. to reunite him with his mother, who has supported the family while living as an illegal resident for over a decade. But Akeem’s rising star is weighed down by turmoil at home: a volatile father, and an unruly older brother who insinuates himself into Akeem’s career as a means of escaping – or perhaps enhancing – his scam artist hustle.

“It’s a universal story authentically rooted in the Caribbean’s diasporic experience while lifting the veil on Jamaica’s renowned track-and-field culture,” said producer Robert Maylor. “We’re excited to present a rarely seen side of Jamaica while crafting an entertaining, coming-of-age journey the region and diaspora are rallying behind.”

“We at Overbrook view ‘Sprinter’ as proof of the powerful storytelling that can emerge when talented voices like Storm’s are given amplification, access, and opportunity,” added Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith. “This is a timely story of a family’s reunification, and we cannot wait to share it with the London audience at BFI Southbank.”

UK Premiere: Sprinter and Q&A hosted by writer, rapper and activist Akala, with director Storm Saulter, actor Dale Elliott, producer Robert Maylor and musician Gaika – Saturday 16 February 2019 14:00 find out more and book tickets here.

Ticket holders are invited to an exclusive After Party at Usain Bolt’s Tracks & Records London. Meet the Director, Cast and Crew – Saturday 16 Feb 2019, 7pm – 1am. Please show your film ticket for entry.