At the recent TV conference MIP Africa, Netflix made waves by announcing an array of captivating content that’s sure to keep viewers glued to their screens. The streaming giant revealed its commitment to South African storytelling and its eagerness to nurture relationships with talented filmmakers in the region.
Among the highlights of the Netflix showcase is the highly anticipated fourth season of the fan-favorite drama series “Blood & Water.” Additionally, viewers can look forward to a brand-new feature-length romantic comedy titled “Soweto Love Story.”
Netflix is also strengthening its ties with South African creatives through several groundbreaking partnerships:
Akin Omotoso and Ochre Media have inked a deal for multiple book adaptations, promising to bring literary gems to life on the screen.
Director Donovan Marsh, known for his work on “iNumber Number,” is teaming up with Netflix for a three-picture partnership, with the first project already underway.
Production company Gambit Films, behind the success of “Blood & Water,” has entered into a multi-project partnership with Netflix, spanning both series and feature films.
Ben Amadasun, Netflix’s VP of content for Middle East and Africa, expressed excitement about the collaborations, stating, “These long-term partnerships with local filmmakers have enabled us to uncover unique perspectives and diverse stories from South Africa to entertain our more than 238 million members around the world.”
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the upcoming series and feature films that were unveiled:
Upcoming Series:
Miseducation: A new young adult series from Burnt Onion Productions, set to premiere on Netflix on September 15. The story revolves around a first-year varsity student, Mbali, who strives to reinvent herself at Grahamstown University in Makhanda after her family’s assets are seized due to her mother’s corrupt political dealings.
Yoh’ Christmas: A holiday season series produced by BBZEE Productions, with more details about the title and cast to be revealed later this year.
Blood & Water Season 4: The popular series from writer and director Nosipho Dumisa and Gambit Films is set to return with more thrilling life lessons in the first quarter of 2024.
Savage Beauty Season 2: This mystery drama series, created by Lebogang Mogashoa and produced by Quizzical Pictures, promises a riveting continuation of the Bhengu family’s story, filled with revenge.
Young, Famous & African Season 3: Production is gearing up for this pan-African reality series, featuring an all-star cast from South Africa, Nigeria, Tanzania, Ghana, and Uganda.
Upcoming Feature Films:
Kandasamys: The Baby: This hilarious and heartfelt installment in the Kandasamys film franchise, directed by Jayan Moodley, premieres on Netflix on October 20. Shot in South Africa and Mauritius, it promises plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments.
Heart of the Hunter: A twisty spy-thriller based on Deon Meyer’s novel, directed by the renowned Mandla Dube, featuring an all-star cast, is set to debut in the first quarter of 2024.
Soweto Love Story: This rom-com set in Johannesburg’s famous township is slated for release in the first quarter of 2024.
Netflix’s commitment to South African storytelling is further exemplified by its extensive content partnerships with local filmmakers and production houses. This expansion underscores Netflix’s dedication to investing in the South African film and television industry. Key partnerships include collaborations with Mandla Dube, Akin Omotoso and Ochre Media, Donovan Marsh, Gambit Films, Jayan Moodley, Stained Glass Productions, and Black Brain Pictures, promising a diverse range of compelling content for audiences worldwide.
