Ben Okri, the celebrated poet and novelist, has reason to celebrate as his book ‘Age of Magic’ has received a significant grant of €167,694 from the Netherlands Film Production Incentive according to Shockng reports. This is a remarkable feat, considering that it is the only book from an African writer selected for this fund, which clearly shows the critical significance of Okri’s work.
‘Age of Magic’ is a story that touches on themes of love, magic, and reality set in an old mysterious town on the shores of a luminous lake. The story follows the journey of a Black writer and his girlfriend, who, along with a film crew, are forever changed by the town’s magic. As they navigate between dream and reality, they seek to rediscover the Arcadian dream.
This grant is a massive boost not only for Okri but also for African literature, which has consistently been overlooked by traditional sources of funding. The fund is an initiative aimed at developing film talent in the Netherlands and enhancing the quality, diversity, and distribution of TV series through its incentive. It is a significant milestone for Okri and a boost for his works, which have resonated with audiences globally.
The film adaptation of the book will be produced by award-winning filmmaker Peter Kruger, who has worked previously with Okri on the 2014 release ‘N-The Madness of Reason.’ The production team is yet to announce details on when the filming is set to commence or when the movie will be released.
Ben Okri has achieved critical acclaim for his works and has played a significant role in African literature, heralding a new era in African storytelling. He is renowned for his post-modern and post-colonial literary traditions, and his work has received numerous awards, including the prestigious Booker Prize in 1991 for his novel ‘The Famished Road.’
This grant is a significant testament to Okri’s talent and the importance of African literature. Nollywood fans eagerly await the cinematic adaptation of Okri’s book ‘Age of Magic,’ which promises to be an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.
