Omar Sy Joins Charlotte Gainsbourg in Immigration Comedy 'Samba'

French mismatched buddy comedy The Intouchables was a global phenomenon, topping charts in numerous countries while becoming the second highest-grossing film in France's history. It also did quite well in America, making for the rare crossover hit and making a star out of Omar Sy, who has since landed the role of Bishop in X-men: Days of Future Past. So it's no wonder that Sy is quick to work once again with the film's directors Olivier Nakache and Eric Toledano by joining their new dramedy, Samba.

The French-language film will also star Charlotte Gainsbourg (The Science of Sleep), Tahar Rahim (A Prophet), and rock star Izia Higelin in a story described as being in the same vein as The Intouchables and dealing with immigration issues. Further plot details are being kept under wraps but we know that Sy will play an undocumented immigrant.

Sy is extremely talented and has enough appeal that he probably could have reprised his role for the upcoming American remake of The Intouchables. Fortunately he's keeping plenty busy, landing major parts in Stephen Gaghan's Candy Store and the crime thriller Good People with James Franco starring.

Samba begins filming later this month. [Variety]