Anakle Films has teamed up with NBA All-Star Joel Embiid’s production company, Miniature Géant, and LeBron James’ athlete empowerment brand, Uninterrupted, to create “Backline,” an inspiring narrative film about African athletes pursuing their dreams of professional American football.
Based on the real-life journeys of current NFL players, “Backline” follows two Nigerian friends striving to break into the sport in the U.S.
It is directed by Editi Effiong, known for “The Black Book,” and filming is set to begin in 2025, with locations in both Nigeria and the United States.
Editi describes the film as a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, emphasizing themes of hope, friendship, and overcoming challenges.
Joel Embiid, who founded Miniature Géant in 2023, aims to highlight stories of unconventional success, echoing his journey from Yaoundé, Cameroon, to NBA fame.
Executive producers include two-time Super Bowl champion Osi Umenyiora, Editi, and Anakle Films.
