RoseAnika Noni Rose ("Dreamgirls") and Idris Elba head a roster of Black thespians now set alongside the incredible Jill Scott for the telepic "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency."
The bestselling "Ladies" books by Alexander McCall Smith center on Precious Ramotswe (Scott), proprietor of the only female-owned detective agency in the African nation of Botswana. She sleuths, helps people solve problems and falls for the respectable owner of a local garage.
According to Variety, shooting begins Monday in Botswana. The country, which has never before hosted an entire film shoot, is said to be investing $5 million in the production.
"Africa for the first time will be shown in its true warmth and welcoming spirit," said Onkokame Kitso Mokaila, minister of environment, wildlife and tourism.