Prolific documentary filmmakers Roger Ross Williams and Andy Mundy-Castle are collaborating on a groundbreaking docuseries about the legendary Afrobeats icon, Fela Kuti. This series aims to explore Kuti’s profound impact on music and politics, showcasing his enduring legacy.
Roger Ross Williams and Andy Mundy-Castle Collaborate on Fela Kuti Documentary
EXCLUSIVE: Prolific documentary filmmakers from both sides of the Atlantic are joining forces for a docuseries on Afrobeats icon Fela Kuti.
Collaborative Efforts
Academy Award winner Roger Ross Williams and his One Story Up banner have partnered with BAFTA-winning UK producer Andy Mundy-Castle from DocHearts to create a program likely to be a four-part limited series focused on the African music pioneer.
Access to Fela Kuti’s Legacy
Access has been secured to individuals close to the late Nigerian star, whose funeral in 1997 drew hundreds of thousands. His unique blend of West African music with funk and jazz, coupled with his charismatic performances, established him as one of the 20th Century’s most significant musicians, influencing artists such as Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan, Jay-Z, and Kanye West.
A Landmark Project
“We’re embarking on a landmark project to tell the definitive story of a radical African icon whose fearless fusion of music and politics shook the world and whose influence still reverberates powerfully today,” Mundy-Castle stated.
Growing Interest
The project has generated substantial interest, particularly among streaming platforms.
Notable Collaborations
Mundy-Castle, who directed and produced the BAFTA-winning documentary White Nanny, Black Child, met Williams at the Sheffield DocFest. “I was inspired by someone telling true stories the way I wanted to,” he remarked.
U.S.-UK Partnership
DocHearts and One Story Up have established a “completely healthy and wholesome” U.S.-UK partnership. With funding for unscripted and documentary projects becoming increasingly scarce, such co-production agreements are becoming more common, especially in the development stage.
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Recognized Work
Mundy-Castle, who founded DocHearts in 2016, is known for the Channel 5 documentary White Nanny, Black Child and other notable productions. He was named Mentor of the Year at the Edinburgh TV Festival’s charity awards in 2025.
Williams’ Acclaimed Career
Williams made history as the first African American to win an Academy Award for the 2009 short Music By Prudence. His recent works include Netflix’s Stamped From the Beginning and HBO Max’s Love to Love You, Donna Summer.
Commitment to Inclusion
Williams is recognized as a leading advocate for inclusive filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of diversity in the industry. “DEI is alive and well at One Story Up,” he affirmed.
Future Collaborations
Mundy-Castle commended Williams for his contributions to inclusive filmmaking. “This partnership speaks to the need for companies to forge relationships and create superpowers,” he concluded.
Williams is represented by WME and Granderson Des Rochers, while Mundy-Castle is represented by United Agents.
