Bob Marley, the iconic reggae legend, is set to be portrayed in a new film titled “One Love.” Actor Kingsley Ben-Adir takes on the challenging role, depicting Marley’s two-year timespan during a politically turbulent era in Jamaica. This biopic aims to demystify the legend and delve into the internal struggles Marley faced, shedding light on his journey to redemption.
For years, directors such as Martin Scorsese and Oliver Stone attempted to bring Bob Marley’s story to the big screen but were unsuccessful. However, Reinaldo Marcus Green finally made it happen after being approached by Paramount Studios. Green felt an immediate connection to the material, especially the story focusing on a critical period in Marley’s life. The film opens in 1976, when Marley was already a star and Jamaica was facing political turmoil. Amidst the violence and rivalries between political parties, Marley attempted to remain neutral but ended up angering both sides when he organized a concert for peace.
The film takes a unique approach, deviating from the traditional cradle-to-grave biopic and instead focusing on a specific timeframe. During this period, Marley faced a traumatic incident where armed gunmen stormed his home, leaving his wife Rita Marley wounded. Miraculously, both survived, but the aftermath led Marley to exile himself in London. It was during this time that he channeled his emotions into creating the groundbreaking album “Exodus,” which featured some of his most beloved hits.
Kingsley Ben-Adir, known for his previous portrayals of iconic black leaders such as Barack Obama and Malcolm X, took on the daunting task of becoming Bob Marley. Despite initial reservations, Ben-Adir sent in a blind audition that left the director impressed with his presence and depth. However, there was one major challenge – Ben-Adir couldn’t sing, dance, or play the guitar. With only 10 weeks to prepare, he tackled the obstacle head-on while simultaneously filming for another project.
On the set of the Barbie movie, Ben-Adir requested permission from director Greta Gerwig to study during breaks. He created a makeshift practice area in Barbie-land and immersed himself in the essence of Marley. To authentically capture Marley’s Trench Town dialect, Ben-Adir studied hours of archive interviews and unreleased recordings. Together with a team of specialists, they translated the script from English to convey the essence of Marley’s unique communication style. Ben-Adir’s dedication extended beyond language; he also learned how to play the guitar, even attempting to write his own songs to better understand the genius of Marley’s music.
In January 2023, a preview of the movie showcased Ben-Adir’s remarkable transformation into Bob Marley. The set of the Exodus tour was meticulously recreated, filled with extras donning iconic ’70s attire. As Ben-Adir stepped up to the mic, audiences witnessed his embodiment of Marley’s spirit and energy. The performance was praised by Ziggy Marley, Bob’s son, who commended Ben-Adir’s preparation and authenticity.
“One Love” seeks to demystify Bob Marley and humanize his legacy. While Marley is often seen as an idea or symbol of peace, this film aims to uncover the internal struggles he faced. It delves into the feeling of insecurity and the need to maintain a facade of strength despite the challenges faced. Viewers will have the opportunity to understand the whole Marley, not just the man on stage, as his son Ziggy Marley highlights.
“One Love” is set to hit cinemas on February 14th, bringing audiences closer to the man behind the music. This biopic serves as a reminder that even legends like Bob Marley experienced internal battles and used their art to find redemption. By unveiling the human side of Marley, this film encourages a deeper appreciation for his journey and the impact he left on the world.
