Filming has commenced in London for the upcoming biopic 'In the Shadows,' featuring BAFTA-winning actor Jasmine Jobson in the lead role as female boxing champion Ramla Ali. Jobson, known for her acclaimed performance in 'Top Boy,' will portray Ali, who bravely pursued her dream of becoming the first Somali-British professional boxing champion.
Joining Jobson in the cast are Finn Cole, known for his roles in 'Peaky Blinders' and 'Last Breath,' as Ali's husband Richard Moore, and Gershwyn Eustache Jr, recognized for his work in 'Andor' and 'Small Axe,' as Ali's boxing coach. The real-life couple of Ali and Moore are serving as executive producers on the project.
'In the Shadows' is described as a compelling love story intertwined with a poignant family drama that highlights the challenges and victories of Ramla and Richard, a mixed-race couple. The narrative showcases their resilience and mutual support, positioning them as inspirational figures for a new generation.
Expressing her excitement for the role, Jobson stated, 'It's a complete honor to take on the role of Ramla and to be trusted to help share her incredible story. Not only to celebrate her talent, strength, and determination as a boundary-breaking athlete but also as an incredibly inspirational Somali woman who has overcome significant adversity.'
Ramla Ali, the real-life boxing sensation, praised Jobson's portrayal, emphasizing her authenticity and emotional depth. Ali, who made history as the first boxer to represent Somalia at the 2020 Olympic Games, has achieved numerous milestones in her career, including winning the first professional female boxing match in Saudi Arabia and securing the IBF intercontinental title in 2023.
'In the Shadows' is helmed by acclaimed documentary filmmaker Anthony Wonke in his narrative fiction debut, with a screenplay penned by Ursula Rani Sarma. The film boasts a stellar lineup of executive producers, including Zygi Kamasa, Will Clarke, and Anushka Shah, among others.
The highly anticipated film is set to hit theaters in the U.K. and Ireland in 2025, with Altitude handling international distribution. 'In the Shadows' promises to be a captivating cinematic experience that sheds light on the remarkable journey of Ramla Ali and her groundbreaking achievements in the world of professional boxing.
