Actor Idris Elba is British, probably best-known for the HBO series that was set in Baltimore, and is among the growing number of celebrities who call Atlanta home, at least part-time.
Los Angeles is where he spends most of his time. But this city keeps beckoning Idris, co-star of the critically acclaimed "The Wire" and current guest star on NBC's "The Office." When he's not co-starring in movies shot here (Rainforest Films' "The Gospel" and Tyler Perry's "Daddy's Little Girls"), he's involved in film projects with local actors and filmmakers, including rapper T.I.'s upcoming "Takers" and Rainforest producer Will Packer's "This Christmas").
Before today's release of "Obsessed" — another Packer production — Elba discussed music star Beyoncé, his co-star in the film, his own upcoming album, and where you just might run into him when he's in Atlanta:
Let's start with what made you say 'yes' to "Obsessed"?
It's a thriller. The story's a human story about a man who hires the wrong person, [and she] becomes obsessed with this person and his family. I thought the original script was good. ... The characters are very real people. And I had a good time. Definitely. I don't get to do thrillers as much.
But you have worked with the guys at Rainforest a lot. How does Will Packer help you at your craft?
Will's a great producer. He has a great company. He's very thorough. Very detail-oriented. We have a great working relationship. ... He would challenge me and I would challenge him. We are partners in our creations.
Same question about Tyler Perry.
Tyler Perry is a phenomenal engine unto himself. His drive is very, very admirable. ... And I thought as an actor, his script offered a very different portrayal of black men and their relationship to their children. That's what attracted me to that film.
And to "Bone Deep" [now retitled "Takers"]?
It's different, too. A big action thriller about these guys who rob banks in L.A. — do one last job and get double-crossed. A phenomenal cast of guys. And the script, the action, was pretty amazing.
Back to "Obsessed" — a musical question: Have a favorite Beyoncé song?
You know, she does great club songs that she's recorded with Destiny's Child and by herself. But I think I would have to say 'Me, Myself and I.' It's produced by a friend of mine, but that's not what does it. It's so melodic.
And you would have a special ear for it, being a DJ as well. What's happening with you musically?
I'm working on a music project that's progressing. Putting an album together with a band. ... And I'm playing all roles: producing, singing, rapping. I figured after [being a DJ] so long, I know what makes a good song. So I should try to make a collection... But I'm very sensitive about it. I have heard the clichés about actors trying to do music. But I'm not trying to use my fame as an actor.
So what does this collection sound like so far?
It's a hybrid of styles — reggae, R&B and soul, some UK house and jungle.
Finally, what made you decide to become an Atlantan, part-time?
I like the climate down here. It's sort of a city on the rise. ... The people are friendly. It's hard when you're in and out to sort of absorb Atlanta like I would like. But I know you can have a good social life here. Great food. I'm a big fan of Houston's.
Have a favorite entree there?
You know, as much as I go — and that could be several times a week when I'm here — I can't say. I try them all!
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