21 Savage is not only preparing to drop new music but also anticipates the release of a feature film that delves into his life, career, and immigration challenges with an ensemble cast.
Following the rapper’s Instagram post unveiling a project named “American Dream: The 21 Savage Story,” featuring images alongside Donald Glover and Caleb McLaughlin, he confirmed the production as an upcoming biopic. Subsequently, he unveiled the trailer on Monday, which also serves as a music video for a new track.
In this cinematic journey, 22-year-old Stranger Things actor McLaughlin portrays 21 Savage during his youth as the “Rich Flex” artist, turning to rap as an outlet while facing adversity at school and personal challenges at home. The Atlanta star, Glover, takes over, depicting the rapper’s breakthrough in the music scene and his success, along with portraying the controversial arrest by ICE in 2019.
The visual features snippets of an unreleased track performed by the rapper, where he reflects on his experiences, challenges, and personal growth. The trailer also includes audio from Golden Globe winner Glover in the studio with 21 Savage’s longtime collaborator Metro Boomin, played by Jabari Banks, discussing the artist’s name.
Glover, along with his brother Stephen Glover, Jamal Olori, Fam Udeorji, and Luis Perez, directed the trailer, as stated in the press release. The cast includes Gail Bean, Druski, Chad Lindberg, Natasha Lyonne, Young Mazino, and Victoria Pedretti. The trailer indicates that “music inspired by the film” is scheduled for release on January 12 and the movie hits theaters on Independence Day.
Despite the absence of a solo studio album since 2018’s “I Am > I Was,” 21 Savage has been active in collaborations with Metro Boomin and Drake.
After the Free 21 Savage movement following his 2019 arrest by ICE, the rapper, four years later, obtained the ability to legally travel outside the U.S. He achieved “lawful permanent resident” status in October 2023, as confirmed by his immigration attorney, who emphasized his adherence to immigration laws and the termination of his court proceedings.
