Kanye West and Common are reportedly being tapped to star in the new Spike Lee film Chiraq, being developed for Amazon Studios. Lee is also courting major acting stars Samuel L. Jackson and Jeremy Piven for the film, according to The Wrap. Though details are scarce about the film, the plot might deal with the gun violence that has plagued the city, notably the South Side, in recent years.
The reported film title references the new name being given Chicago, drawing similarities between the horrid violence going on in the Windy City and Iraq.
Piven and West are from Chicago, which makes them logical choices, though neither has officially signed on for the film. They are both in negotiations to join the film. Piven will depend on his schedule as he prepares to shoot a second season of Mr. Selfridge.
Jackson and Lee have a long history together, having worked together in Do the Right Thing and Jungle Fever, among other films. He is expected to have a cameo appearance in Chiraq.
West has already grown his brand beyond music into the fashion world successfully, and recent news would indicate that the "All Day" rapper is attempting to make a splash on the big screen. He had a hilarious cameo in Anchorman 2 and is reportedly filming a cameo in the upcoming sequel Zoolander 2.
Common recently made his impact on film with his song "Glory" alongside John Legend, which won the Oscar for Best Original Song. He has pretty extensive experience on the big screen playing roles of varying importance in films like Date Night, Wanted, Terminator Salvation and American Gangster.
Common and Kanye have outgoing and charismatic personalities, so it would be interesting to see them don different artistic roles.
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