Wyclef Jean is getting animated! The Grammy-winning musician is working with Netflix and Greg Silverman on a CG animated film that is inspired by Jean’s childhood in Haiti. Jean and Silverman will produce the film with Lisa Zambri and Cara Fano via Silverman’s entertainment media company, Stampede. Nick Lewin and Madeline Nelson and Nick Lewin will also co-produce.
The film, written by Justin Marks, will inspire children who, like Jean, use their imagination to dream big.
“I grew up in extreme poverty, but I was rich with imagination,” he said in a press release statement. “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.”
“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,” said Silverman according to the press release. “We’ve been delighted to partner with them and Netflix on this astounding film.”
Melissa Cobb, vice president of kids and family at Netflix, said in a statement that Jean’s story “hooked” Netflix:
“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,” she said. “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.”
Marks also said in a statement that working with Jean is an “honor.”
“When I was seventeen years old, two things had a huge impact on my life: the music of Wyclef Jean and the spirit of his home country, Haiti. I’ve been lucky enough to have visited Haiti and worked alongside its people several times over the years, and I’ve long wanted to tell a story about its vibrant and resilient culture,” he said. “If you’d have told Teenage Me that one day I’d get to work with Wyclef on a movie like this, I’d have never believed you. This movie is an honor and a thrill, and I’m grateful to Greg, Stampede and Netflix for making it a reality.”
