Idris Elba, who starred as in 2013 sci-fi movie Pacific rim, will again headline and produce Uzodinma Iweala’s 2005 best selling novel “Beast of No Nation” .

The actor will play the character of the  imposing military commander in Cary Fukunaga’s adaptation of Uzodinma novel.

The story revolves around ” the journey of a young boy, Agu, who, when civil war engulfs his West African country is forced to join a unit of mercenary fighters. Not only must Agu face the death of his father and disappearance of his mother and sister, but must also join a life of violence and brutality.”

Fukunaga commented on the project as follows:

“This project has been seven years in the making, so to say I’m excited to start shooting this — and with Idris Elba as lead — would be me trying to play it cool. Red Crown has real moxie standing behind this story.”

Read more: Collider