Actor Sharlto Copley burst onto the scene in 2009’s “District 9.” The Oscar nominated film about aliens co-existing in modern day South Africa was a great introduction to Copley. Now, it looks like Copley is coming full circle for his directorial debut.
According to Deadline, Copley has signed on to write and direct his first film, “Sapien Safari.” And yes, it features aliens. “Sapien Safari” is described as a “social comedy” about an alien naturalist who tries to convince the new owner of Earth to actually protect its dominant wildlife species – humans. As well as writing and directing, Copley is signed on to star in the film.
The film is being financed by QC Entertainment. A few of their partners are responsible for financing the “social” horror/thriller “Get Out.” We all know how that investment turned out, as we get ready for the upcoming Academy Awards where “Get Out” is nominated multiple times. They’re hoping that Copley can replicate the same success that first-time director Jordan Peele had with his film.
Copley seems to think his relationship with QC will give him a lot of freedom, saying, “In an increasingly risk-averse environment, the team at QC have been an enormous blessing. They have an eye for bold, edgy and original material with commercial potential. Once on board, they wholeheartedly back the filmmaker. One can’t ask for more.” But let’s be real – Copley would probably say that about any company willing to spend millions of dollars for him to write, direct, and star in a film.
The actor has never been shy about taking on unique and daring projects. Other than “District 9,” Copley has been seen in “Elysium,” “Hardcore Henry,” and even the horrible “A-Team” reboot. He’d probably like to forget about that last one. Sharlto Copley will next be seen in “Gringo,” from Amazon Studios which co-stars Charlize Theron and Joel Edgerton.
No word on who will join Copley in the cast, or when “Sapien Safari” might see the light of day.