Half of a Yellow Sun

I haven’t actually got round to reading this although I bought the book last year. Adichie’s first book Purple Hibiscus is one of my favourite books of all time. This book is about to adapted into a full length feature. What seems to be the pressing issue about the adaption is the casting of Thandie Newton as Olenna, numerous people have commented on the fact that Olenna’s part should be played by a Nigerian actor. Do their criticisms have foundation? I think so, yes. In a world where few films with central black characters are made or even written it’s important that when certain opportunities arise the project is made with a truthfulness and loyalty to the story. It’s not only that Olenna’s character is Nigerian, but that the work Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has written represents a seminal period in Nigerian filmmaking and writing. It’s important that Nigerians have a chance to represent their own narratives. That’s why I think Chiwetel Ejiofor is a great choice to play the other lead in the film. But, you might say, maybe there aren’t any acclaimed Nigerian actresses out there. Wrong. Adepero Oduye would have been perfect for the part. Nigerian? check. Acting chops? check. Fits the role? check. Yet again it seems that Hollywood are attempting to sidefoot integrity for a more internationally recognised actress.