Wyclef Jean is turning his childhood story into an animated film.
Wyclef is teaming up with Netflix to bring the story of his childhood in Haiti to life through CG-animation. The Haitian native and Fugees co-founder is collaborating with Greg Silverman’s upstart production company to produce the movie. The script will be written by Justin Marks; Marks is well-known for writing “The Jungle Book,” “The Jungle Book 2” and “Top Gun: Maverick.”⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The story will follow the journey of Jean’s childhood in Haiti and then moving onto to his life after his family immigrated to Brooklyn. It will also highlight his transition to New Jersey, where his life in music started. “I grew up in extreme poverty but I was rich with imagination,” Jean said. “Now to see that imagination turn into reality with Netflix and my producing partners makes me want to tell the kids from the slums around the world to never stop dreaming.”⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The production team includes Jean, Silverman, along with Madeline Nelson and Nick Lewin as co-producers. Lisa Zambri and Cara Fano from Stampede will manage the film. “When Wyclef first came to us with the rich story idea for an animated film about his personal journey and the evolution of his music from when he was a young boy in Haiti to finding his voice in New York City — we were hooked,” said Melissa Cobb, VP Kids and Family at Netflix. “Animation is a medium that travels the globe exceptionally well and we cannot wait to share Wyclef’s unique perspective and voice with family audiences around the world.”
Silverman added that Jean’s story and Haiti are near to his heart. “Haiti holds a special place in my heart, and Wyclef and Justin’s film will showcase this magical country in their unique and signature style. We’ve been delighted to partner with them and Netflix on this.”
