In a recently released trailer, 21 Savage offers a glimpse into a memoir movie that details his life, from his upbringing and career to his 2019 incarceration by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Titled “American Dream: The 21 Savage Story,” the biopic features Donald Glover, known for his musical alter ego Childish Gambino, and “Stranger Things” actor Caleb McLaughlin as they portray the Grammy-winning rapper.
While the trailer presents a compelling narrative with the Lionsgate logo and an “Independence Day” release date, the authenticity of the feature film remains uncertain, according to Variety. A poster for the movie, shared on Instagram, showcases Savage, Glover, and McLaughlin, adding to the intrigue surrounding the potential biopic.
Donald Glover, alongside his brother Stephen Glover, Jamal Olori, Fam Udeorji, and Luis Perez, directed the trailer. Olori and Donald Glover also took on the role of screenwriters for the film. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the movie’s status, the trailer has generated considerable interest, especially with the involvement of notable figures like Glover and McLaughlin.
The biopic arrives as 21 Savage continues his musical journey, having released two collaborative albums since his release from captivity in 2019. These include the 2020 album “Savage Mode II” with Metro Boomin and the 2022 release “Her Loss” with Drake. With five Grammy nominations, 21 Savage remains a prominent figure in the music industry, awaiting the results of the awards ceremony scheduled for February 4.
The trailer, presented in a music video format, introduces a new song from 21 Savage, setting the stage for the storytelling experience. It kicks off with McLaughlin portraying a young Savage, highlighting his experiences of being bullied in school before embracing tattoos and entering the rap scene. The transition to Glover playing the older version of Savage brings forth scenes in a studio alongside rapper-producer Metro Boomin, portrayed by Jabari Banks of “Bel-Air.”
The trailer artfully weaves together various aspects of 21 Savage’s life, incorporating scenes of ICE officials raiding his home, courtroom appearances, and moments of triumph, such as holding a Grammy trophy earned in 2020 for Best Rap Song with “A Lot.”
The narrative is enriched with Glover’s poignant statement in the studio: “When I first got here, they ain’t even give me a name. I’m just number 21. Treated us like savages.” The biopic aims to explore the rapper’s journey, shedding light on his struggles, achievements, and the resilience that defined his path.
Notable moments in the trailer include Natasha Lyonne in royal attire knighting Glover, scenes with Savage’s family, and an image of the rapper standing beside the two leads portraying him. These elements contribute to the multifaceted storytelling approach employed by the filmmakers.
21 Savage’s transformation into a permanent U.S. resident in 2023 marks a significant chapter in his life, allowing him the freedom to travel, including visits to his birthplace, London. The rapper faced a tumultuous period in 2019 when ICE officials arrested him due to an expired visa, leading to a 10-day detention before his release.
In a 2019 interview, 21 Savage expressed his lack of knowledge about visas when he arrived in the U.S. at the age of 7, emphasizing the challenges faced by immigrants living in the country illegally. The biopic aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of these experiences, capturing the essence of 21 Savage’s remarkable journey.
The cast of “American Dream: The 21 Savage Story” includes Donald Glover, Caleb McLaughlin, Natasha Lyonne, Druski, Gail Bean, Chad Lindberg, Victoria Pedretti, and Young Mazino, creating a dynamic ensemble to bring the rapper’s story to life.
As the trailer sparks curiosity and anticipation, the potential release of “American Dream” awaits confirmation, leaving fans eager to delve into the complex narrative that unfolds the layers of 21 Savage’s life.