Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson to Direct 'The Ariostocats' Live-Action Film in Scripted Feature Debut

by Darian Scalamoni

    Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson is probably best known for being the drummer of the iconic hip-hop and progressive soul group, The Roots. They also serve as the house band for The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and Thompson recently found himself in the moviemaking business. Now, with an Academy Award already to his name, he's looking to make a presence in the scripted film space.

    Per a report from Justin Kroll of Deadline, we can confirm that Thompson is directing a live-action/hybrid of the 1970 animated feature The Aristocats. The original film centers around a family of cats in Paris, France who learn that they are due to inherit a wealth of riches from their owner. However, the owner's envious butler kidnaps them and leaves them alone in the country as they team up with a cool, persuasive tomcat to try and help them make it back home before it's too late. Due to his musical background, Thompson will also oversee the music for the project.

    Thompson serves as a founding member of The Roots, based out of Philadelphia and is a six-time Grammy Award winner. Questlove made the leap into the film industry by directing his documentary, Summer of Soul, which streams on Hulu following the 1969 Harlem Cultural festival. The film premiered at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival taking home the Grand Jury Prize and went on a tear winning countless awards, earning renowned acclaim resulting in a Best Documentary at the 2022 Oscars.