The story of the loves and ambitions of two struggling performers is told through intricate musical numbers and vibrantly choreographed dance sequences in "Idlewild," an original musical starring multi-platinum and multi-Grammy winning OutKast members André Benjamin (André 3000) and Antwan Andre Patton (Big Boi).
Set against the backdrop of a 1930s southern speakeasy, "Idlewild" explores the lives of Percival (Benjamin), the club's shy piano player, and Rooster (Patton), the club's showy lead performer and manager. "Idlewild" synthesizes drama, music, cinema and style to bring the tale of struggling singers to life. It is the feature film- directing debut for Bryan Barber, the award-winning director and longtime OutKast music video collaborator, and includes dance sequences choreographed by legendary performer and three-time Tony winner Hinton Battle.
The all-star cast is a roster of some of the most notable performers in film and music today. Cast members include Ving Rhames ("Mission: Impossible"), Terrence Howard ("Hustle & Flow"), newcomer Paula Patton, Faizon Love ("Elf"), Malinda Williams ("Soul Food"), legendary recording artist Patti LaBelle ("On the One"), singer Macy Gray ("Training Day"), Tony Award winner Ben Vereen ("Why Do Fools Fall In Love") and Oscar® nominee and Emmy winner Cicely Tyson ("Fried Green Tomatoes").
"Idlewild" includes new songs from OutKast's forthcoming album, the soundtrack for the movie.