Obama to host White House screening of Mandela film

NEW YORK, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- The stars of the Nelson Mandela bio-picture, "Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom," are to attend a White House screening of the film, producers announced.

U.S. President Barack Obama is to serve as host of Thursday's screening, The Weinstein Co. said Monday.

Confirmed to attend the event are Idris Elba and Naomie Harris, who play former South African President Nelson Mandela and his ex-wife, Winnie.

Mandela's daughters, Zindzi and Zenani Mandela, are also expected to be at the White House screening.

"Idris Elba brings my father's essence to life with an exceptional performance as Nelson Mandela. I loved the film, especially how it portrays my father's life and his global impact from the values of a small village boy through to an international leader," Zindzi Mandela said in a statement.

"The film is amazing and Naomie Harris' performance is beautiful," Winnie Mandela said.

"Knowing what a strong relationship President Obama has with President Mandela, it's an honor for this film to be shown at the White House," TWC Co-Chairman Harvey Weinstein said.

The film is based on Nelson Mandela's autobiography of the same name, which chronicles his early life, coming of age, education and 27 years in prison before becoming president and working to rebuild the country's once segregated society. The movie is set for U.S. theatrical release Nov. 29.