In Her Perfect Life, Onajite Johnson-Ibrahim (played by Pearl Thusi) appears to have it all. She’s a 39-year-old entrepreneur with the perfect Instagram profile — a fantastic career, a loving husband (played by Ahmed Ibrahim), and two bright and beautiful children — but Onajite is secretly suffering from depression. She’s contemplating suicide.
Iyawo Mi (My Wife) follows the story of Eniola (Bolaji Ogunmola). Economically, she’s on the other end of the scale to Onajite, living in one of the poorest neighborhoods in Lagos. Her husband, Kunle (Lateef Adedimeji) works as a driver. One night he returns home to find his wife in the throes of madness, hallucinating, screaming at their children and threatening to kill them. With little understanding of mental illness and no access to a support system, he decides to take matters into his own hands, with tragic results.
These are two stories of women on the edge.
Iyawo Mi (My Wife) follows the story of Eniola (Bolaji Ogunmola). Economically, she’s on the other end of the scale to Onajite, living in one of the poorest neighborhoods in Lagos. Her husband, Kunle (Lateef Adedimeji) works as a driver. One night he returns home to find his wife in the throes of madness, hallucinating, screaming at their children and threatening to kill them. With little understanding of mental illness and no access to a support system, he decides to take matters into his own hands, with tragic results.
These are two stories of women on the edge.
- 12/16/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Girls' trip - don't text. Gabrielle Union and Tia Mowry seem to be having the ultimate vacation in the South of France, and their mini throwback dance party is the proof. In an Aug. 29 TikTok, the two showed off impressive choreography to Christina Aguilera's iconic 2000s hit "Come On Over (All I Want Is You)," matching each other's energy with Union in an asymmetrical red minidress, and Mowry in bright yellow.
Together, the dynamic duo hit every beat of the ultra nostalgic track, moving in sync and striking dramatic poses at the end. "Established in 1997 South of France Edition," Union captioned the video with her newfound dance partner, referencing the year she met Mowry on the "Sister Sister" set. "Romanticizing life like an early 2000s romcom with my girl," Mowry added on her own TikTok account. She later reposted the video on Instagram for good measure, writing, "Cairo and...
Together, the dynamic duo hit every beat of the ultra nostalgic track, moving in sync and striking dramatic poses at the end. "Established in 1997 South of France Edition," Union captioned the video with her newfound dance partner, referencing the year she met Mowry on the "Sister Sister" set. "Romanticizing life like an early 2000s romcom with my girl," Mowry added on her own TikTok account. She later reposted the video on Instagram for good measure, writing, "Cairo and...
- 8/30/2023
- by Chandler Plante
- Popsugar.com
"We are headed to the big leagues!" Disney has revealed a trailer for a new animated anthology series, in the same vein as their Star Wars: Visions collections. Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire features ten stories from Africa that are aiming "to ignite the world." The selection of animated shorts follow a set of characters through a dystopian future, in some cases through time travel, other worlds and alien beings, all through the lens of African culture. This is cool. Featuring segments with the titles "Stardust," "Mkhuzi: The Spirit Racer," "Hatima," "Enkai," "Moremi," "Surf Sangoma," "Mukudzei," "First Totem Problems," "Herderboy," and "You Give Me Heart". Animated by Triggerfish based in Cape Town. With the voices of Florence Kasumba, Kehinde Bankole, Pearl Thusi, Hakeem Kae-Kazim, Sheila Munyiva, Stycie Waweru, Candice Modiselle, Lillian Dube, Clementine Mosimane, Mandisa Nduna, Tumi Morake, Sne Dladla, Tyson Ngubeni, Nasty C, Gigi Lamayne. Damn all of these look good!
- 6/13/2023
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
After the exhibition fight between Floyd Mayweather and John Gotti III in Florida, Joseline Hernandez started a fight with Big Lex.
Hernandez, a Puerto Rican reality TV personality star, attacked the rapper, Big Lex, backstage at the Fla Arena.
People tried to pull the two women apart, but they kept hitting and kicking each other. Hernandez ended up putting Big Lex in a headlock, which caused Big Lex’s dress to fall down, exposing her breasts. Big Lex tried to fight back but seemed to have some trouble. Security did manage to pull the two women apart. Even though the fight had ended, Hernandez continued to hit other people. It is still unclear why the fight started.
Video: Joseline Hernandez and Big Lex fight backstage after Floyd Mayweather vs John Gotti fight Pearl Thusi |Uncle Waffles|Thabo Bester #MayweatherGotti https://t.co/GWLeYVdKZo
pic.twitter.com/bfURSab6V2
— Taofic (@Taofic...
Hernandez, a Puerto Rican reality TV personality star, attacked the rapper, Big Lex, backstage at the Fla Arena.
People tried to pull the two women apart, but they kept hitting and kicking each other. Hernandez ended up putting Big Lex in a headlock, which caused Big Lex’s dress to fall down, exposing her breasts. Big Lex tried to fight back but seemed to have some trouble. Security did manage to pull the two women apart. Even though the fight had ended, Hernandez continued to hit other people. It is still unclear why the fight started.
Video: Joseline Hernandez and Big Lex fight backstage after Floyd Mayweather vs John Gotti fight Pearl Thusi |Uncle Waffles|Thabo Bester #MayweatherGotti https://t.co/GWLeYVdKZo
pic.twitter.com/bfURSab6V2
— Taofic (@Taofic...
- 6/13/2023
- by Nina Hauswirth
- Uinterview
Mo Abudu, the CEO of EbonyLife Media, has launched Mo Abudu Films and directed two short films that address mental health issues from a Nigerian perspective, a subject that is considered taboo in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
“Iyawo Mi” tells the story of Kunle, a young married man who lives in impoverished downtown Lagos. He returns home one evening to find his wife Eniola appears to be hallucinating, and the film explores the tragic consequences that ensue. Lateef Adedimeji, Bolaji Ogunmola and Segun Arinze are the leading actors, with Jude Chukwuka, Koye Kekere-Ekun and Blessing Obasi in supporting roles.
Meanwhile, “Her Perfect Life” portrays the story of a woman, Onajite Johnson Ibrahim, who is envied by everyone in Lagos but wants to end it all. The film features Pearl Thusi and Joseph Benjamin in leading roles, with Omowunmi Dada, Uzo Osimkpa, Mary Lazarus and Christian Paul in supporting roles.
“Iyawo Mi” tells the story of Kunle, a young married man who lives in impoverished downtown Lagos. He returns home one evening to find his wife Eniola appears to be hallucinating, and the film explores the tragic consequences that ensue. Lateef Adedimeji, Bolaji Ogunmola and Segun Arinze are the leading actors, with Jude Chukwuka, Koye Kekere-Ekun and Blessing Obasi in supporting roles.
Meanwhile, “Her Perfect Life” portrays the story of a woman, Onajite Johnson Ibrahim, who is envied by everyone in Lagos but wants to end it all. The film features Pearl Thusi and Joseph Benjamin in leading roles, with Omowunmi Dada, Uzo Osimkpa, Mary Lazarus and Christian Paul in supporting roles.
- 5/4/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Mo Abudu, the CEO of EbonyLife Media, has stepped into the writing and directing spaces, having completed two short films – Iyawo Mi and Her Perfect Life – the former of which will screen at the Cannes Film Festival’s Short Film Corner this month. Both projects have also been selected for the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival in August.
The Nigerian media mogul, who has spent the last decade building pan-African outfit EbonyLife Media into one of the most dynamic companies on the continent, will launch the two projects through her new banner Mo Abudu Films. Both films address mental health issues from a Nigerian perspective, a subject which is considered a taboo topic in the country and throughout Africa.
Iyawo Mi is described as a heart-wrenching story of a young married man named Kunle, who lives in the impoverished downtown area of Lagos. One evening he comes home...
The Nigerian media mogul, who has spent the last decade building pan-African outfit EbonyLife Media into one of the most dynamic companies on the continent, will launch the two projects through her new banner Mo Abudu Films. Both films address mental health issues from a Nigerian perspective, a subject which is considered a taboo topic in the country and throughout Africa.
Iyawo Mi is described as a heart-wrenching story of a young married man named Kunle, who lives in the impoverished downtown area of Lagos. One evening he comes home...
- 5/4/2023
- by Diana Lodderhose
- Deadline Film + TV
Mo Abudu, the Nigerian media mogul behind EbonyLife Media, has launched a new label, Mo Abudu Films, that aims to broaden the spectrum of Nigerian cinema by making more “personal and intimate” films that champion “the voices and perspectives of underrepresented communities.”
The label will also serve as a vehicle for Abudu’s directorial ambitions. The prolific producer of such Nigerian box office hits as Fifty and The Wedding Party as well as TV series including Netflix’s Blood Sisters has helmed two short films, Her Perfect Life and Iyawo Mi (My Wife), that will mark the first titles on the Mo Abudu Films slate.
Both projects address mental health issues, a taboo subject in Nigeria and throughout much of Africa. Her Perfect Life follows Onajite Johnson Ibrahim (Pearl Thusi), a 30-something woman who appears, on Instagram, to have the ideal life — a flourishing career, a loving husband (Ahmed Ibrahim...
The label will also serve as a vehicle for Abudu’s directorial ambitions. The prolific producer of such Nigerian box office hits as Fifty and The Wedding Party as well as TV series including Netflix’s Blood Sisters has helmed two short films, Her Perfect Life and Iyawo Mi (My Wife), that will mark the first titles on the Mo Abudu Films slate.
Both projects address mental health issues, a taboo subject in Nigeria and throughout much of Africa. Her Perfect Life follows Onajite Johnson Ibrahim (Pearl Thusi), a 30-something woman who appears, on Instagram, to have the ideal life — a flourishing career, a loving husband (Ahmed Ibrahim...
- 5/4/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Click here to read the full article.
The global television scene offered up an embarrassment of riches this year, with a seemingly endless supply of phenomenal dramas, comedies and crime procedurals as good as, or often better, than the best on offer Stateside.
The international expansion of Netflix, Amazon, AppleTV+ and others has meant many global talents now have the financial means to make their dream originals, while series from more traditional local broadcasters have access to global platforms, and a worldwide audience, on a scale never seen before.
Ahead of the winter break, The Hollywood Reporter continues its holiday tradition in picking out the best international series to binge-watch over the holiday season. Our favorite 2022 series stocking stuffers include a feminist spy thriller from Germany, a Korean take on a British romantic classic and a deep dive into the French hip-hop scene of the 1980s. (Check out our list...
The global television scene offered up an embarrassment of riches this year, with a seemingly endless supply of phenomenal dramas, comedies and crime procedurals as good as, or often better, than the best on offer Stateside.
The international expansion of Netflix, Amazon, AppleTV+ and others has meant many global talents now have the financial means to make their dream originals, while series from more traditional local broadcasters have access to global platforms, and a worldwide audience, on a scale never seen before.
Ahead of the winter break, The Hollywood Reporter continues its holiday tradition in picking out the best international series to binge-watch over the holiday season. Our favorite 2022 series stocking stuffers include a feminist spy thriller from Germany, a Korean take on a British romantic classic and a deep dive into the French hip-hop scene of the 1980s. (Check out our list...
- 12/23/2022
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
What do Idris Elba, Lupin superstar Omar Sy and emerging French-Vietnamese writer Quoc Dang Tran have in common? Other than their obvious creative skills, they are among a growing number of stars born outside the U.S. who have signed talent deals in the last year. Deadline estimates as many as 20 first-look or multi-title deals have been struck by global streamers or LA-based studios since the beginning of 2021.
Back in May, HBO Max announced it had locked in Sy into a first-look deal to make international shows for the streamer, with the actor-producer developing and producing content out of his native France. It’s perhaps no coincidence that France was one of only two European countries that will still develop its HBO Max originals, following Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to halt production in most of the continent.
The deal was among the clearest indicators that creative partnerships with non-u.
Back in May, HBO Max announced it had locked in Sy into a first-look deal to make international shows for the streamer, with the actor-producer developing and producing content out of his native France. It’s perhaps no coincidence that France was one of only two European countries that will still develop its HBO Max originals, following Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to halt production in most of the continent.
The deal was among the clearest indicators that creative partnerships with non-u.
- 10/16/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Continuing the eye-candy, Hollywood-like with an Asian flavor martial arts aesthetic, the sequel to “Wu Assassins” begins where its predecessor left off, adding even more to the aforementioned elements.
Kai, Lu Xin and Tommy travel to Bangkok to hunt down the killer of Tommy’s sister Jenny, having found on her body an ancient talisman that leads them to Thailand. There, biotech billionaire, super-powered William Pan approaches them by taking the place of a number of club visitors the two first have visited in their search. Pan asks them to bring to him his twin sister, underworld boss Ku An Qi, a jiangshi who has been consuming massive amounts of qi to expand her supernatural powers in order to take over the world. Joined by Tommy’s friend Preeya, the group plan to kidnap Ku from a meeting with the city’s Triad bosses. However, things do not go as...
Kai, Lu Xin and Tommy travel to Bangkok to hunt down the killer of Tommy’s sister Jenny, having found on her body an ancient talisman that leads them to Thailand. There, biotech billionaire, super-powered William Pan approaches them by taking the place of a number of club visitors the two first have visited in their search. Pan asks them to bring to him his twin sister, underworld boss Ku An Qi, a jiangshi who has been consuming massive amounts of qi to expand her supernatural powers in order to take over the world. Joined by Tommy’s friend Preeya, the group plan to kidnap Ku from a meeting with the city’s Triad bosses. However, things do not go as...
- 3/2/2022
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
Stars: Iko Uwais, Lewis Tan, Lawrence Kao, Yayaying Rhatha Phongam, JuJu Chan Szeto, Jason Tobin, Francesca Corney, Pearl Thusi | Written by Yalun Tu, Cameron Litvack | Directed by Roel Reiné
After its first, and so far only, season Netflix announced that Wu Assassins would be getting a sequel in the form of a stand-alone movie. And now just about a year from that announcement, Fistful of Vengeance has arrived. Reuniting the show’s three leads Kai, Lu Xin and Tommy.
Fistful of Vengeance opens with a fight against a supernatural creature in a Bangkok nightclub. At some point between the end of the series and now someone, or more accurately something, killed Tommy’s sister Jenny and the trail has led them here and to Ku An Qi a powerful entity that has used her powers to seize control of the city’s underworld.
Fistful of Vengeance was directed by Roel...
After its first, and so far only, season Netflix announced that Wu Assassins would be getting a sequel in the form of a stand-alone movie. And now just about a year from that announcement, Fistful of Vengeance has arrived. Reuniting the show’s three leads Kai, Lu Xin and Tommy.
Fistful of Vengeance opens with a fight against a supernatural creature in a Bangkok nightclub. At some point between the end of the series and now someone, or more accurately something, killed Tommy’s sister Jenny and the trail has led them here and to Ku An Qi a powerful entity that has used her powers to seize control of the city’s underworld.
Fistful of Vengeance was directed by Roel...
- 2/15/2022
- by Jim Morazzini
- Nerdly
"This woman you're dealing with... she needs to be stopped!" Netflix has unveiled the official trailer for a martial arts action film titled Fistful of Vengeance, made by a Dutch filmmaker named Roel Reiné. A revenge mission becomes a fight to save the world from an ancient threat when superpowered assassin Kai tracks a killer to Bangkok, Thailand. Kai Jin, a young Chinatown chef in present day San Francisco, becomes entangled with the Chinese Triad's pursuit of deadly ancient powers known as the "Wu Xing". Iko Uwais stars with Lewis Tan, Lawrence Kao, and Pearl Thusi in this fast-and-furious martial arts action film. Also featuring JuJu Chan Szeto, Jason Tobin, and Yayaying Rhatha Phongam. This is a crazy cool, fully action-packed trailer with all kinds of fun characters and fight scenes. I dig it! Looks like a good time. Here's the first official trailer for Roel Reiné's Fistful of Vengeance,...
- 1/20/2022
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
If there was ever a season that Netflix gave other networks a run for their money, it has to be the recent years. The streaming giant is hungry for content and keeps it coming as fast as viewers pay for subscriptions. Netflix took the content game a notch higher when it introduced its first African original, Queen Sono, starring South Africa’s real black pearl, Pearl Thusi. Since its acquisition of the Genevieve Nnaji film, Lionheart, we have seen more African content emerge on the platform, including How to Ruin Christmas, Blood & Water, the Fergusons’ Kings of Jo’Burg, and Fakii
Inside Jennifer Garner’s New Deal With Netflix...
Inside Jennifer Garner’s New Deal With Netflix...
- 8/6/2021
- by Nataly Owala
- TVovermind.com
Black Widow is out, bringing the women-led spy genre to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film follows Natasha Romanov in the time between Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War as she works to bring down the Red Room, aka the Soviet-affiliated program that took her as a baby and brainwashed her into becoming an assassin. While the women-centric spy drama may be new for the MCU, it’s has been one of the most prolific and entertaining action sub-genres over the past few decades. If you’ve watched Black Widow and you’re looking for more taut and emotional spy thrillers to check out, we have some TV and film suggestions for you…
Hanna
Many have seen the 2011 action feature directed by Joe Wright and starring Saoirse Ronan as a girl assassin raised in the wilderness by her spy father Eric Bana, but the TV series based on the film is even better.
Hanna
Many have seen the 2011 action feature directed by Joe Wright and starring Saoirse Ronan as a girl assassin raised in the wilderness by her spy father Eric Bana, but the TV series based on the film is even better.
- 7/11/2021
- by Kayti Burt
- Den of Geek
This is a rare case of no news being good news!
Almost two years after Wu Assassins debuted its freshman season on Netflix, the streamer has confirmed its future.
A movie follow-up has been ordered as opposed to a full-fledged second season, but fear not:
Wu Assassins Season 2 could materialize at Netflix, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
It's also possible that the franchise could continue with additional movies. There are many unanswered questions at this moment in time, but it's nice to know the story will continue in some form.
Now, with such a long time between the first season and this movie being ordered, there will be some casting changes.
The returning cast includes Iko Uwais as Kai Jin, Lewis Tan as Lu Xin Lee, Lawrence Kao as Tommy Wah, and JuJu Chan Szeto as Zan Hui.
There are some new additions to the cast, however.
They are as follows:
Pearl Thusi as Adaku,...
Almost two years after Wu Assassins debuted its freshman season on Netflix, the streamer has confirmed its future.
A movie follow-up has been ordered as opposed to a full-fledged second season, but fear not:
Wu Assassins Season 2 could materialize at Netflix, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
It's also possible that the franchise could continue with additional movies. There are many unanswered questions at this moment in time, but it's nice to know the story will continue in some form.
Now, with such a long time between the first season and this movie being ordered, there will be some casting changes.
The returning cast includes Iko Uwais as Kai Jin, Lewis Tan as Lu Xin Lee, Lawrence Kao as Tommy Wah, and JuJu Chan Szeto as Zan Hui.
There are some new additions to the cast, however.
They are as follows:
Pearl Thusi as Adaku,...
- 2/26/2021
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
A Wu Assassins standalone movie is heading to Netflix. The streaming service has ordered Fistful of Vengeance, a 90-minute film which will star original Wu Assassins cast members Iko Uwais, Lewis Tan, Lawrence Kao and JuJu Chan Szeto, along with new cast Pearl Thusi (Quantico), Rhatha Phongam (Only God Forgives), Francesca Torney and Jason Tobin (Warrior).
Written by Cameron Litvack, Jessica Chou and Yalun Tu and directed by Roel Reiné, Fistful of Vengeance will see the Wu Assassin team reunite in Bangkok to avenge the death of one of their own, only to find that their new enemy is an ancient threat armed with otherworldly powers.
Uwais will reprise his role as Kai Jin, along with Tan as Lu Xin Lee, Kao as Tommy Wah and Chan Szeto as Zan Hui.
Thusi will portray Adaku, Corney will play Preeya, Tobin is William Pan and Phongam is Ku An Qi.
Thge...
Written by Cameron Litvack, Jessica Chou and Yalun Tu and directed by Roel Reiné, Fistful of Vengeance will see the Wu Assassin team reunite in Bangkok to avenge the death of one of their own, only to find that their new enemy is an ancient threat armed with otherworldly powers.
Uwais will reprise his role as Kai Jin, along with Tan as Lu Xin Lee, Kao as Tommy Wah and Chan Szeto as Zan Hui.
Thusi will portray Adaku, Corney will play Preeya, Tobin is William Pan and Phongam is Ku An Qi.
Thge...
- 2/26/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
“Wu Assassins” is continuing at Netflix with a standalone movie.
The film, titled “Wu Assassins: Fistful of Vengeance,” will be 90 minutes and will bring back series stars Iko Uwais, Lewis Tan, Lawrence Kao, and JuJu Chan Szeto. In addition, Pearl Thusi, Francesca Corney, Jason Tobin, and Rhatha Phongam will also star in the film.
According to an individual with knowledge of the series, the show could still potentially return for a second season or other another standalone story. The film is set to shoot in Thailand with production services provided by Living Films.
Cameron Litvack, Jessica Chou, and Yalun Tu — all of whom were writers on Season 1 of the show — are writing the film. Roel Reiné, who directed multiple episodes of the show, will direct the film.
“Wu Assassins” was created by Tony Krantz and John Wirth. Season 1 consisted of 10 episodes and debut on Netflix in August 2019 to mostly positive reviews.
The film, titled “Wu Assassins: Fistful of Vengeance,” will be 90 minutes and will bring back series stars Iko Uwais, Lewis Tan, Lawrence Kao, and JuJu Chan Szeto. In addition, Pearl Thusi, Francesca Corney, Jason Tobin, and Rhatha Phongam will also star in the film.
According to an individual with knowledge of the series, the show could still potentially return for a second season or other another standalone story. The film is set to shoot in Thailand with production services provided by Living Films.
Cameron Litvack, Jessica Chou, and Yalun Tu — all of whom were writers on Season 1 of the show — are writing the film. Roel Reiné, who directed multiple episodes of the show, will direct the film.
“Wu Assassins” was created by Tony Krantz and John Wirth. Season 1 consisted of 10 episodes and debut on Netflix in August 2019 to mostly positive reviews.
- 2/26/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Kai Jin & Co. will seek a Fistful of Vengeance in a Netflix movie that will reunite several characters from the Wu Assassins supernatural-action drama.
In the 90-minute standalone story, which is set to film in Thailand, the Wu Assassin team reunites in Bangkok to avenge the death of one of their own, only to find that their new enemy is an ancient threat armed with otherworldly powers.
More from TVLineGinny & Georgia's Antonia Gentry on How She Helped Write Ginny and Hunter's 'Oppression Olympics' FightElite Renewed for Season 5 at Netflix, Ahead of Season 4 PremiereGinny & Georgia Team Discusses the Premiere's Surprise Hookup...
In the 90-minute standalone story, which is set to film in Thailand, the Wu Assassin team reunites in Bangkok to avenge the death of one of their own, only to find that their new enemy is an ancient threat armed with otherworldly powers.
More from TVLineGinny & Georgia's Antonia Gentry on How She Helped Write Ginny and Hunter's 'Oppression Olympics' FightElite Renewed for Season 5 at Netflix, Ahead of Season 4 PremiereGinny & Georgia Team Discusses the Premiere's Surprise Hookup...
- 2/26/2021
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
Because of potential disruptions in filming from the ongoing 'Covid-19' pandemic, Netflix has canceled the South African action thriller TV series "Queen Sono", after one season, starring Pearl Thusi, Vuyo Dabula, Sechaba Morojele, Chi Mhende, Loyiso Madinga, Rob Van Vuuren, Kate Liquorish, Khathu Ramabulana, Enhle Maphumulo, Abigail Kubeka, Connie Chiume, Otto Nobela and James Ngcobo:
"...'Queen Sono' follows a secret South African clandestine agent (Thusi) who tackles criminal operations while dealing with crises in her personal life.
"She is a seasoned field operative of the 'Special Operations Group' ('Sog') and daughter of 'Safiya Sono' (Lady Skollie), a deceased South African anti-apartheid revolutionary leader and freedom fighter. As a young orphan, Queen struggled to comprehend the mystery surrounding her mother's assassination case. Determined to find the answers she seeks, she continues to investigate her family's past and uncover the identity of the true culprit responsible for her mother's death.
"...'Queen Sono' follows a secret South African clandestine agent (Thusi) who tackles criminal operations while dealing with crises in her personal life.
"She is a seasoned field operative of the 'Special Operations Group' ('Sog') and daughter of 'Safiya Sono' (Lady Skollie), a deceased South African anti-apartheid revolutionary leader and freedom fighter. As a young orphan, Queen struggled to comprehend the mystery surrounding her mother's assassination case. Determined to find the answers she seeks, she continues to investigate her family's past and uncover the identity of the true culprit responsible for her mother's death.
- 12/2/2020
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Netflix has canceled its first African original series Queen Sono after one season, reversing the renewal it confirmed back in April.
The streamer didn’t detail the reasons behind its decision but Deadline understands the second series would have shot in multiple countries across the African continent which would have been more challenging during a pandemic. A statement from the director and creator Kagiso Lediga suggested it was pandemic-related.
“We wrote a beautiful story that spanned the continent but unfortunately could not be executed in these current trying times,” he said.
On Twitter, Lediga added that his show’s cancellation was “another casualty of 2020.”
The series centered on a highly trained spy who takes on dangerous missions while also facing challenges in her personal life. The second season was set to see her search for the truth as her newfound need for revenge takes her on a mission across Africa.
The streamer didn’t detail the reasons behind its decision but Deadline understands the second series would have shot in multiple countries across the African continent which would have been more challenging during a pandemic. A statement from the director and creator Kagiso Lediga suggested it was pandemic-related.
“We wrote a beautiful story that spanned the continent but unfortunately could not be executed in these current trying times,” he said.
On Twitter, Lediga added that his show’s cancellation was “another casualty of 2020.”
The series centered on a highly trained spy who takes on dangerous missions while also facing challenges in her personal life. The second season was set to see her search for the truth as her newfound need for revenge takes her on a mission across Africa.
- 12/1/2020
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Another Netflix series bites the dust.
The streamer has officially pulled the plug on its first African original series, Queen Sono, despite previously picking up a second season.
South African news outlet Channel24 has revealed the cancellation comes due to production challenges brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.
“We’ve made the difficult decision not to move forward with season 2 of Queen Sono,” Netflix said in a statement.
“A huge thank you to our fans across the world for the love shared for our first African Original series.
“Netflix is also grateful to the… cast and crew for their stellar efforts in creating this show for our members around the world,” the statement continued.
“We’ll continue to work closely with South Africa’s creative industry to keep producing more compelling ‘Made-in-South Africa’ stories.”
Series creator Kagiso Lediga also released a statement, which read: “We wrote a beautiful story that...
The streamer has officially pulled the plug on its first African original series, Queen Sono, despite previously picking up a second season.
South African news outlet Channel24 has revealed the cancellation comes due to production challenges brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.
“We’ve made the difficult decision not to move forward with season 2 of Queen Sono,” Netflix said in a statement.
“A huge thank you to our fans across the world for the love shared for our first African Original series.
“Netflix is also grateful to the… cast and crew for their stellar efforts in creating this show for our members around the world,” the statement continued.
“We’ll continue to work closely with South Africa’s creative industry to keep producing more compelling ‘Made-in-South Africa’ stories.”
Series creator Kagiso Lediga also released a statement, which read: “We wrote a beautiful story that...
- 12/1/2020
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
The streaming giant’s ambitious initiative Made By Africa, Watched By the World is a welcome platform for the continent’s overlooked cinematic talent
‘Have you ever had someone tell your story, take your voice … and replace your face until no one else can see or hear you?” These are the powerful words that Nigerian actor/director Genevieve Nnaji speaks to introduce the Netflix initiative Made By Africa, Watched By the World. Mixing new, original content with older African classics that have not previously been streamed elsewhere, this initiative, much like Strong Black Lead (2018), aims to showcase content that centres black stories but – unlike Strong Black Lead – it will be by and about Africans. It creates a path for stories that specifically address different slices of the African experience to see the light of day and reach a wider audience. Considering that there’s a growing feeling among Africans that...
‘Have you ever had someone tell your story, take your voice … and replace your face until no one else can see or hear you?” These are the powerful words that Nigerian actor/director Genevieve Nnaji speaks to introduce the Netflix initiative Made By Africa, Watched By the World. Mixing new, original content with older African classics that have not previously been streamed elsewhere, this initiative, much like Strong Black Lead (2018), aims to showcase content that centres black stories but – unlike Strong Black Lead – it will be by and about Africans. It creates a path for stories that specifically address different slices of the African experience to see the light of day and reach a wider audience. Considering that there’s a growing feeling among Africans that...
- 10/7/2020
- by Fred Onyango
- The Guardian - Film News
Exclusive: The 24th Annual Urbanworld Film Festival, which takes place on September 23-27, has unveiled their full virtual lineup of over 100 official selections panels and conversations which will be available online. The fest has also added a spotlight conversation around Amazon Studios docu All In: The Fight for Democracy, its new Creativity Uncovered series, Overstand’s virtual pitch event, their #ShareTheMic Instagram takeover as well as additional guests.
On September 23, there will be a conversation with All In: The Fight for Democracy directors Lisa Cortés and Liz Garbus along with activist DeRay McKesson and moderator Keith Boykin. The day prior marks National Voter Registration Day and to align with this, All In: The Fight for Democracy will be available on Urbanworld’s Vimeo Channel for the full day with an introduction by Fair Fight Action’s Stacey Abrams, along with directors and producers Garbus and Cortés.
The full agenda...
On September 23, there will be a conversation with All In: The Fight for Democracy directors Lisa Cortés and Liz Garbus along with activist DeRay McKesson and moderator Keith Boykin. The day prior marks National Voter Registration Day and to align with this, All In: The Fight for Democracy will be available on Urbanworld’s Vimeo Channel for the full day with an introduction by Fair Fight Action’s Stacey Abrams, along with directors and producers Garbus and Cortés.
The full agenda...
- 9/18/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix has signed a multi-title deal with prolific Nigerian producer Mo Abudu’s EbonyLife to create two original series. Multiple branded films and a series have also been licensed to the streaming service.
Among the highlights will be a film adaptation of “Death and the King’s Horseman,” a play by Nobel Prize winner Wole Soyinka, and a series based on Lola Shoneyin’s best-selling debut novel, “The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives.” One of the unnamed projects will premiere on the platform in 2020. Further details about the rest of the EbonyLife slate will be revealed at a later date.
Since becoming a household name in the 2000s with her daytime talk show “Moments With Mo,” Abudu has risen to become one of the most trusted names in Nigerian entertainment. After launching EbonyLife as an upscale TV network in 2012, she moved into feature film production with slickly produced titles like “The Wedding Party,...
Among the highlights will be a film adaptation of “Death and the King’s Horseman,” a play by Nobel Prize winner Wole Soyinka, and a series based on Lola Shoneyin’s best-selling debut novel, “The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives.” One of the unnamed projects will premiere on the platform in 2020. Further details about the rest of the EbonyLife slate will be revealed at a later date.
Since becoming a household name in the 2000s with her daytime talk show “Moments With Mo,” Abudu has risen to become one of the most trusted names in Nigerian entertainment. After launching EbonyLife as an upscale TV network in 2012, she moved into feature film production with slickly produced titles like “The Wedding Party,...
- 6/12/2020
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
After nearly 11 years at ICM Partners, veteran agent Dana Sims has joined CAA. Sims, who previously spent over 10 years at Wma (William Morris Agency before it became William Morris Endeavor) will be based in the CAA Los Angeles office starting next month.
Clients who will be joining Sims at CAA are Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Pearl Thusi, Alyssa Goss, and Dean Jagger, with others to be announced at a later date.
News of Dana exit comes soon after Deadline reported Laura Gordon, a rising star TV literary agent at ICM, had left the agency to join CAA.
Clients who will be joining Sims at CAA are Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Pearl Thusi, Alyssa Goss, and Dean Jagger, with others to be announced at a later date.
News of Dana exit comes soon after Deadline reported Laura Gordon, a rising star TV literary agent at ICM, had left the agency to join CAA.
- 6/11/2020
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
Veteran agent Dana Sims is joining Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in the Motion Picture Talent department effective July 1, the agency announced on Thursday.
Previously, Sims spent 11 years at ICM. She will be based in the Los Angeles office of CAA.
Sims brings clients to CAA that include Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Pearl Thusi, Alyssa Goss, and Dean Jagger. Others will be announced soon.
Also Read: CAA Board Adds Sports Agent Lisa Joseph Metelus
Earlier this month, CAA appointed Lisa Joseph Metelus to its board, the agency’s new leadership structure, formed in January underscoring the company’s continued growth and next-generation strategy.
Others on the board include Risa Gertner, Michael Levine, Emma Banks, Joe Cohen, Maha Dakhil, Paul Danforth, Michelle Kydd Lee, Joel Lubin, Sonya Rosenfeld, Rick Roskin, and Tiffany Ward, who collectively oversee the day-to-day management of the agency.
Read original story Veteran Agent Dana Sims Joins CAA in Motion...
Previously, Sims spent 11 years at ICM. She will be based in the Los Angeles office of CAA.
Sims brings clients to CAA that include Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Pearl Thusi, Alyssa Goss, and Dean Jagger. Others will be announced soon.
Also Read: CAA Board Adds Sports Agent Lisa Joseph Metelus
Earlier this month, CAA appointed Lisa Joseph Metelus to its board, the agency’s new leadership structure, formed in January underscoring the company’s continued growth and next-generation strategy.
Others on the board include Risa Gertner, Michael Levine, Emma Banks, Joe Cohen, Maha Dakhil, Paul Danforth, Michelle Kydd Lee, Joel Lubin, Sonya Rosenfeld, Rick Roskin, and Tiffany Ward, who collectively oversee the day-to-day management of the agency.
Read original story Veteran Agent Dana Sims Joins CAA in Motion...
- 6/11/2020
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
Ama Qamata is a 21-year-old South African actress who Pearl Thusi, the lead in “Queen Sono,” said is among the four next big things. Ama has her own credits, having starred in “Gomora,” “Rhythm City,” “My Perfect Family,” and “Commandos: The Mission.” Currently, she is hitting the headlines since she will also be in an upcoming Netflix Original series “Blood & Water” alongside Gail Mabalane and Thabang Molaba. Here is everything else you need to know about the actress. 1. She is the lead in “Blood & Water.” Netflix is flaunting a new show “Blood &Water” that will be the
10 Things You Didn’t Know About Ama Qamata...
10 Things You Didn’t Know About Ama Qamata...
- 5/10/2020
- by Jennifer Borama
- TVovermind.com
The Keystone Cops of Reno 911! are returning to the scene of the crime next week via Quibi — and we have your first look at the revival’s inaugural full-length trailer above.
As previously reported, the first three of Season 7’s 12 mini-episodes will premiere Monday, May 4 via the streamer, with subsequent episodes rolling out weekdays.
More from TVLineYoung & Restless, Bold & Beautiful Will Run Out of Original Episodes This Week -- CBS' (Cool) Backup Plan RevealedKristin Davis to Host Baby-Themed Dating Show Labor of Love at FoxTVLine Items: Disney+'s Robin Hood Remake, Corden Returns and More
Returning Reno 911! veterans include Thomas Lennon,...
As previously reported, the first three of Season 7’s 12 mini-episodes will premiere Monday, May 4 via the streamer, with subsequent episodes rolling out weekdays.
More from TVLineYoung & Restless, Bold & Beautiful Will Run Out of Original Episodes This Week -- CBS' (Cool) Backup Plan RevealedKristin Davis to Host Baby-Themed Dating Show Labor of Love at FoxTVLine Items: Disney+'s Robin Hood Remake, Corden Returns and More
Returning Reno 911! veterans include Thomas Lennon,...
- 4/29/2020
- TVLine.com
Netflix has renewed its first African original Queen Sono for a second season.
Starring Quantico‘s Pearl Thusi, it centers on a highly trained spy who takes on dangerous missions, while also facing challenges in her personal life. The second season will see her search for the truth as her newfound need for revenge takes her on a mission across Africa.
Queen Sono was created by director Kagiso Lediga, who worked with Thusi on dark romantic comedy Catching Feelings, and executive producer Tamsin Andersson, who produced Catching Feelings. Johannesburg-based Diprente Films made the show, with production on Season 2 expected to begin later this year.
Dorothy Ghettuba, who leads African originals at Netflix, said: “The first season of Queen Sono marked the beginning of our journey to introduce the world to exciting stories that are made in Africa. It was an unprecedented representation of a strong female black lead in African television.
Starring Quantico‘s Pearl Thusi, it centers on a highly trained spy who takes on dangerous missions, while also facing challenges in her personal life. The second season will see her search for the truth as her newfound need for revenge takes her on a mission across Africa.
Queen Sono was created by director Kagiso Lediga, who worked with Thusi on dark romantic comedy Catching Feelings, and executive producer Tamsin Andersson, who produced Catching Feelings. Johannesburg-based Diprente Films made the show, with production on Season 2 expected to begin later this year.
Dorothy Ghettuba, who leads African originals at Netflix, said: “The first season of Queen Sono marked the beginning of our journey to introduce the world to exciting stories that are made in Africa. It was an unprecedented representation of a strong female black lead in African television.
- 4/28/2020
- by Jake Kanter
- Deadline Film + TV
This week, Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos and a team of executives have been traveling through the African continent, meeting with local creatives, as part of an aggressive content expansion into areas that are still relatively untapped sources of talent. Sarandos is doing so as the streaming giant’s first African original series, the spy-drama “Queen Sono,” is released worldwide February 28.
As a series created entirely by Africans, with a majority African cast and produced on a Netflix budget, “Queen Sono” is certainly a novelty that will likely draw audiences for that reason alone. But, in the long run, with a second season very likely — given how the first season ends — it’ll need to rely on more than its landmark arrival in order to stay relevant and stand out in a world awash with content.
The series stars South African actress Pearl Thusi (“Quantico”) as the title character,...
As a series created entirely by Africans, with a majority African cast and produced on a Netflix budget, “Queen Sono” is certainly a novelty that will likely draw audiences for that reason alone. But, in the long run, with a second season very likely — given how the first season ends — it’ll need to rely on more than its landmark arrival in order to stay relevant and stand out in a world awash with content.
The series stars South African actress Pearl Thusi (“Quantico”) as the title character,...
- 2/29/2020
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos and a team of high-level executives have spent the week crisscrossing the African continent, wooing local creators and touting plans to thrust the continent center-stage as the streaming giant’s first African original series, “Queen Sono,” drops worldwide on Friday.
Sarandos took the mic at a splashy event in Lagos Tuesday night, where the crowd was serenaded by traditional drums before the Netflix topper affirmed the streamer’s commitment to bringing African stories to a global audience.
“I’ve learned so much in the very short time we’ve been here…(and) I’ve just been thrilled to be surrounded by some of the most creative and successful creators in the world here in Nigeria, telling your stories to the world,” he said. “And that’s the thing that’s most exciting about…what we’re doing in Africa, and what we’re doing in Nigeria.
Sarandos took the mic at a splashy event in Lagos Tuesday night, where the crowd was serenaded by traditional drums before the Netflix topper affirmed the streamer’s commitment to bringing African stories to a global audience.
“I’ve learned so much in the very short time we’ve been here…(and) I’ve just been thrilled to be surrounded by some of the most creative and successful creators in the world here in Nigeria, telling your stories to the world,” he said. “And that’s the thing that’s most exciting about…what we’re doing in Africa, and what we’re doing in Nigeria.
- 2/28/2020
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
Even though Netflix broke many hearts when it canceled “One Day at a Time,” the streamer is doing what it to repopulate its Latinx programming with top-notch comedies from creators of color. Earlier this year, Netflix launched “Gentefied,” a smart and entertaining former web series about a tight-knit Mexican family weathering gentrification in L.A.’s Boyle Heights neighborhood. In March it will premiere the third season of its charming young adult dramedy, “On My Block,” which released its first trailer today.
Per the official synopsis: “They thought life was about to return to what passes for normal in Freeridge, but the stakes just got even higher. ‘On My Block’ is a coming of age comedy about four bright and street-savvy friends navigating their way through the triumph, pain and the newness of high-school set in the rough inner city.”
“On My Block” was co-created by Lauren Iungerich (“Awkward”) and...
Per the official synopsis: “They thought life was about to return to what passes for normal in Freeridge, but the stakes just got even higher. ‘On My Block’ is a coming of age comedy about four bright and street-savvy friends navigating their way through the triumph, pain and the newness of high-school set in the rough inner city.”
“On My Block” was co-created by Lauren Iungerich (“Awkward”) and...
- 2/28/2020
- by Jude Dry
- Indiewire
Netflix has released a trailer for its anticipated first African original series, titled “Queen Sono.” The series represents the streaming giant’s ongoing push into the African continent — a still relatively untapped source of talent and content.
“Queen Sono” is a South African crime drama created by actor and director Kagiso Lediga, starring Pearl Thusi (“Quantico”) as a Jason Bourne-like operative who tackles dangerous missions while contending with personal challenges.
Thusi is joined in front of the camera by Vuyo Dabula, Sechaba Morojele, Chi Mhende, Loyiso Madinga, Rob Van Vuuren, Kate Liquorish, Khathu Ramabulana, Enhle Maphumulo, Abigail Kubeka, Connie Chiume, Otto Nobela and James Ngcobo. The series was ordered for a six-episode first season by Netflix in December 2018, with Lediga as executive producer alongside Tamsin Andersson. Lediga and Tebogo Malope directed all six episodes.
The first season is set to be released on Netflix in its entirety on February 28.
In...
“Queen Sono” is a South African crime drama created by actor and director Kagiso Lediga, starring Pearl Thusi (“Quantico”) as a Jason Bourne-like operative who tackles dangerous missions while contending with personal challenges.
Thusi is joined in front of the camera by Vuyo Dabula, Sechaba Morojele, Chi Mhende, Loyiso Madinga, Rob Van Vuuren, Kate Liquorish, Khathu Ramabulana, Enhle Maphumulo, Abigail Kubeka, Connie Chiume, Otto Nobela and James Ngcobo. The series was ordered for a six-episode first season by Netflix in December 2018, with Lediga as executive producer alongside Tamsin Andersson. Lediga and Tebogo Malope directed all six episodes.
The first season is set to be released on Netflix in its entirety on February 28.
In...
- 1/30/2020
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
Stars: Zach McGowan, Nathan Jones, Peter Mensah, Pearl Thusi, Mayling Ng, Inge Beckmann, Katy Louise Saunders, Howard Charles, Rizelle Januk | Written by David Alton Hedges, Frank DeJohn | Directed by Don Michael Paul
A spin-off from 2001′s Mummy sequel, the Scorpion King series – begun in 2002 – has official now out-lived and outlasted the very franchise it was born from. Stephen Sommers Mummy films ran for 9 years and three films, whilst the Scorpion King franchise is now in it’s fifth film with The Scorpion King: Book of Souls and has gone on for 18 years – with four sequels in the the last decade alone.
This latest comes once again from Universal 1440, the direct to market arm of Universal which has consistently put out direct to DVD sequels to a myriad of different franchises like Death Race, Bring It On, Jarhead, Tremors and more. This film also sees Universal 1440 stalwart Don Michael Paul in the directors chair,...
A spin-off from 2001′s Mummy sequel, the Scorpion King series – begun in 2002 – has official now out-lived and outlasted the very franchise it was born from. Stephen Sommers Mummy films ran for 9 years and three films, whilst the Scorpion King franchise is now in it’s fifth film with The Scorpion King: Book of Souls and has gone on for 18 years – with four sequels in the the last decade alone.
This latest comes once again from Universal 1440, the direct to market arm of Universal which has consistently put out direct to DVD sequels to a myriad of different franchises like Death Race, Bring It On, Jarhead, Tremors and more. This film also sees Universal 1440 stalwart Don Michael Paul in the directors chair,...
- 1/8/2020
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Stars: Faizon Love, Kirk Fox, Tony Todd, Pearl Thusi, Cassie Clare, Fiona Ramsay | Written by Rick Wilkes | Directed by Don Michael Paul
Back in February 2019, when I reviewed Benchwarmers 2 I speculated that Universal’s Dtv arm Universal 1440 Entertainment were scraping the bottom of the barrel. How little did I know… Yes, after being set up to produce sequels to Universal’s properties such as Death Race, Tremors and The Scorpion King, the company has in recent years has churned out sequels to Kindergarten Cop, Daddy Day Care, Cop and a Half, Honey, Bring it On and even Backdraft. Oh, and last November’s out-of-nowhere sequel to Undercover Brother.
But in no way did I or anyone else for that matter, Ever expect Bulletproof 2, a sequel to the 1996 Adam Sandler film Bulletproof. After all, it’s been 24(!) years since the original film was released and both its stars Adam...
Back in February 2019, when I reviewed Benchwarmers 2 I speculated that Universal’s Dtv arm Universal 1440 Entertainment were scraping the bottom of the barrel. How little did I know… Yes, after being set up to produce sequels to Universal’s properties such as Death Race, Tremors and The Scorpion King, the company has in recent years has churned out sequels to Kindergarten Cop, Daddy Day Care, Cop and a Half, Honey, Bring it On and even Backdraft. Oh, and last November’s out-of-nowhere sequel to Undercover Brother.
But in no way did I or anyone else for that matter, Ever expect Bulletproof 2, a sequel to the 1996 Adam Sandler film Bulletproof. After all, it’s been 24(!) years since the original film was released and both its stars Adam...
- 1/6/2020
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
‘Atlantics’: Netflix’s Aggressive Africa Push Continues With Acquisition of Cannes Grand Prix Winner
Netflix has acquired worldwide rights to French-Senegalese filmmaker Mati Diop’s feature debut, the award winning “Atlantics,” which premiered at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival, where it was awarded the Grand Prix.
The film’s Cannes premiere earned Diop, niece of the late, great Senegalese cinema pioneer Djibril Diop Mambéty, a spot in the history books: she became the first woman of African descent with a film in the 72-year-old festival’s Competition section, and has proven to be one of the biggest breakouts at Cannes this year.
Previously titled “Fire Next Time” (although not based on James Baldwin’s famous essay collection of the same name), the film was in rare company. Diop and French-Malian Ladj Ly were the only filmmakers of African descent represented in Competition at the world’s most prestigious film festival this year.
The acquisition represents Netflix’s ongoing aggressive push into the African continent — a...
The film’s Cannes premiere earned Diop, niece of the late, great Senegalese cinema pioneer Djibril Diop Mambéty, a spot in the history books: she became the first woman of African descent with a film in the 72-year-old festival’s Competition section, and has proven to be one of the biggest breakouts at Cannes this year.
Previously titled “Fire Next Time” (although not based on James Baldwin’s famous essay collection of the same name), the film was in rare company. Diop and French-Malian Ladj Ly were the only filmmakers of African descent represented in Competition at the world’s most prestigious film festival this year.
The acquisition represents Netflix’s ongoing aggressive push into the African continent — a...
- 5/25/2019
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
When South African writer-director Gareth Crocker was developing “Shadow,” a series about an ex-cop with superpowers who fights crime in Johannesburg’s underworld, he took the unusual and risky approach of bypassing local broadcasters to get the project made.
The show’s executive producers wanted to keep the rights to a series they thought had global potential. “We simply produced and financed the show ourselves before taking it to the market,” Crocker says, adding that the eight-part series was made on an “extremely modest budget” in a country where an hour-long episode costs around $100,000.
The gamble paid off when Netflix swooped in to acquire the program, which rolled out in 190 countries on March 8 — the widest release of an African dramatic series to date.
If TV’s golden age has turned everything from Mexican drug running to British royal intrigue into required viewing, African stories have been noticeably absent from the conversation.
The show’s executive producers wanted to keep the rights to a series they thought had global potential. “We simply produced and financed the show ourselves before taking it to the market,” Crocker says, adding that the eight-part series was made on an “extremely modest budget” in a country where an hour-long episode costs around $100,000.
The gamble paid off when Netflix swooped in to acquire the program, which rolled out in 190 countries on March 8 — the widest release of an African dramatic series to date.
If TV’s golden age has turned everything from Mexican drug running to British royal intrigue into required viewing, African stories have been noticeably absent from the conversation.
- 5/9/2019
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix continues its push into the African continent — a still relatively untapped source of talent and content — with its latest originals order, which is also its first original African animated series, “Mama K’s Team 4,” produced by Cape Town, South Africa-based Triggerfish Animation Studios and London-based kids’ entertainment house Cake.
Bringing a fresh perspective to a classic cartoon genre, the series tells the story of four teen girls living in a neo-futuristic Lusaka, Zambia, who are recruited by a retired secret agent still committed to saving the world.
The news comes four months after Netflix announced its first African original, “Queen Sono,” starring veteran South African actress Pearl Thusi (“Quantico”) as a secret agent fighting crime while dealing with her messy personal life. It followed that up in February with a series order for the South African teen drama “Blood & Water,” which is directed by Nosipho Dumisa, the helmer behind...
Bringing a fresh perspective to a classic cartoon genre, the series tells the story of four teen girls living in a neo-futuristic Lusaka, Zambia, who are recruited by a retired secret agent still committed to saving the world.
The news comes four months after Netflix announced its first African original, “Queen Sono,” starring veteran South African actress Pearl Thusi (“Quantico”) as a secret agent fighting crime while dealing with her messy personal life. It followed that up in February with a series order for the South African teen drama “Blood & Water,” which is directed by Nosipho Dumisa, the helmer behind...
- 4/22/2019
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
South African producers have struck a string of international co-production deals in recent months that are poised to push scripted drama series from the Rainbow Nation onto the global stage.
“We’re very excited about the opportunity to take African stories to the world,” says Yolisa Phahle, CEO for general entertainment at the MultiChoice Group, which includes pay-tv heavyweight DStv and the M-Net group of channels. “It’s all about finding the biggest, best and leading producers of drama in the world to help us distribute our stories.”
MultiChoice is planning to develop three to four scripted drama series with international partners per year. In development are “Trackers,” a six-part TV adaptation of the novel by bestselling South African author Deon Meyer, which is being produced with German broadcaster Zdf; and “Reyka,” a crime series it’s producing with the U.K.’s Serena Cullen Prods. and Emmy-nominated South African production company Quizzical Pictures,...
“We’re very excited about the opportunity to take African stories to the world,” says Yolisa Phahle, CEO for general entertainment at the MultiChoice Group, which includes pay-tv heavyweight DStv and the M-Net group of channels. “It’s all about finding the biggest, best and leading producers of drama in the world to help us distribute our stories.”
MultiChoice is planning to develop three to four scripted drama series with international partners per year. In development are “Trackers,” a six-part TV adaptation of the novel by bestselling South African author Deon Meyer, which is being produced with German broadcaster Zdf; and “Reyka,” a crime series it’s producing with the U.K.’s Serena Cullen Prods. and Emmy-nominated South African production company Quizzical Pictures,...
- 4/8/2019
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix is continuing its push into African originals with its latest order, the South African teen series “Blood & Water.”
The series, which is directed by Nosipho Dumisa, the helmer behind the buzzy SXSW title “Number 37,” follows a local teen who discovers her family’s secret past while navigating the complicated world of a South African high school.
The news comes two months after Netflix announced its first African original, “Queen Sono,” starring veteran South African thesp Pearl Thusi (“Quantico”) as a secret agent fighting crime while dealing with her messy personal life. Last week the streamer also announced its acquisition of South African drama “Shadow,” about an ex-cop with superpowers, which will be released globally as a Netflix Original March 8.
“Blood & Water” features an up-and-coming local cast and will be produced by the Gambit Films team behind “Number 37.” Daryne Joshua and Travis Taute will be writing and co-directing with Dumisa,...
The series, which is directed by Nosipho Dumisa, the helmer behind the buzzy SXSW title “Number 37,” follows a local teen who discovers her family’s secret past while navigating the complicated world of a South African high school.
The news comes two months after Netflix announced its first African original, “Queen Sono,” starring veteran South African thesp Pearl Thusi (“Quantico”) as a secret agent fighting crime while dealing with her messy personal life. Last week the streamer also announced its acquisition of South African drama “Shadow,” about an ex-cop with superpowers, which will be released globally as a Netflix Original March 8.
“Blood & Water” features an up-and-coming local cast and will be produced by the Gambit Films team behind “Number 37.” Daryne Joshua and Travis Taute will be writing and co-directing with Dumisa,...
- 2/25/2019
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix is continuing its aggressive move into African originals with its latest commission: teen series Blood & Water.
The series, which will be directed by Nommer 37 director Nosipho Dumisa, follows a local teen uncovering her family’s secret past and navigating the complicated world of a South African high school.
This comes two months after the Svod service unveiled Queen Sono, starring Quantico’s Pearl Thusi, as its first African original.
Blood & Water will be produced by Dumisa’s Nommer 37 team at Gambit Films with Daryne Joshua and Travis Taute writing and co-directing with Nosipho, Bradley Joshua and Benjamin Overmeyer as producers and Simon Beesley as lead editor.
The series is set to start production later this year and is expected to launch globally in 190 countries in 2020.
“Gambit Films and I are so excited to be working with Netflix on this explosive young adult drama, with not only a cool look...
The series, which will be directed by Nommer 37 director Nosipho Dumisa, follows a local teen uncovering her family’s secret past and navigating the complicated world of a South African high school.
This comes two months after the Svod service unveiled Queen Sono, starring Quantico’s Pearl Thusi, as its first African original.
Blood & Water will be produced by Dumisa’s Nommer 37 team at Gambit Films with Daryne Joshua and Travis Taute writing and co-directing with Nosipho, Bradley Joshua and Benjamin Overmeyer as producers and Simon Beesley as lead editor.
The series is set to start production later this year and is expected to launch globally in 190 countries in 2020.
“Gambit Films and I are so excited to be working with Netflix on this explosive young adult drama, with not only a cool look...
- 2/25/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Stranger Things production company 21 Laps on board as executive producer.
Jonathan Entwistle, British director of BAFTA-nominated Netflix series The End Of The Fucking World, is to co-create I Am Not Okay With This, another series for the streaming giant based on the work of End Of… graphic novelist Charles Forsman.
Netflix has given an eight-episode order to I Am Not Okay With This, and Stranger Things production company 21 Laps serves as executive producer.
Based on Forsman’s 2017 comic book, the new series is a coming-of-age story about a teenage girl navigating the trials and tribulations of high school,...
Jonathan Entwistle, British director of BAFTA-nominated Netflix series The End Of The Fucking World, is to co-create I Am Not Okay With This, another series for the streaming giant based on the work of End Of… graphic novelist Charles Forsman.
Netflix has given an eight-episode order to I Am Not Okay With This, and Stranger Things production company 21 Laps serves as executive producer.
Based on Forsman’s 2017 comic book, the new series is a coming-of-age story about a teenage girl navigating the trials and tribulations of high school,...
- 12/12/2018
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Stars: Zach McGowan, Nathan Jones, Peter Mensah, Pearl Thusi, Mayling Ng, Inge Beckmann, Katy Louise Saunders, Howard Charles, Rizelle Januk | Written by David Alton Hedges, Frank DeJohn | Directed by Don Michael Paul
A spin-off from 2001′s Mummy sequel, the Scorpion King series – begun in 2002 – has official now out-lived and outlasted the very franchise it was born from. Stephen Sommers Mummy films ran for 9 years and three films, whilst the Scorpion King franchise is now in it’s fifth film with Scorpion King: Book of Souls and has go on for 16 years – with four sequels in the the last ten years alone.
This latest comes once again from Universal 1440, the direct to market arm of Universal which has consistently put out direct to DVD sequels to a myriad of different franchises like Death Race, Bring It On, Jarhead, Tremors and more. This film also sees Universal 1440 stalwart Don Michael Paul in the directors chair,...
A spin-off from 2001′s Mummy sequel, the Scorpion King series – begun in 2002 – has official now out-lived and outlasted the very franchise it was born from. Stephen Sommers Mummy films ran for 9 years and three films, whilst the Scorpion King franchise is now in it’s fifth film with Scorpion King: Book of Souls and has go on for 16 years – with four sequels in the the last ten years alone.
This latest comes once again from Universal 1440, the direct to market arm of Universal which has consistently put out direct to DVD sequels to a myriad of different franchises like Death Race, Bring It On, Jarhead, Tremors and more. This film also sees Universal 1440 stalwart Don Michael Paul in the directors chair,...
- 12/12/2018
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Karen Walker is bonding with a handmaid: Emmy winner Samira Wiley (The Handmaid’s Tale) has booked a guest arc on Will & Grace, per The Hollywood Reporter.
Wiley will play Nikki, a confident woman who gets Karen to open up about her love life while the two are snowed in at the office.
Wiley — whose TV credits also include Orange Is the New Black and You’re the Worst — will appear in three episodes of the NBC comedy in 2019.
Ready for more of today’s newsy nuggets? Well…
* Jane the Virgin star Jaime Camil will star in and executive-produce...
Wiley will play Nikki, a confident woman who gets Karen to open up about her love life while the two are snowed in at the office.
Wiley — whose TV credits also include Orange Is the New Black and You’re the Worst — will appear in three episodes of the NBC comedy in 2019.
Ready for more of today’s newsy nuggets? Well…
* Jane the Virgin star Jaime Camil will star in and executive-produce...
- 12/10/2018
- TVLine.com
Netflix is continuing to broaden its slate of international fare with an order for its first African original series, Queen Sono.
Queen Sono is a drama series that will star Quantico's Pearl Thusi -- who is South African -- as a secret agent balancing crimefighting with a fraught personal life, Variety reports. It will premiere on the platform globally in 2019.
Thusi tweeted a video about the news today, saying that Queen Sono is “going to change the game for every artist on this continent.” She added, “Thank you to Netflix for believing in this idea. I cannot wait for every young woman, every woman on this continent, and actually this planet to meet Queen Sono. We’ve worked so hard on this and I cannot wait.”
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
Queen Sono is a drama series that will star Quantico's Pearl Thusi -- who is South African -- as a secret agent balancing crimefighting with a fraught personal life, Variety reports. It will premiere on the platform globally in 2019.
Thusi tweeted a video about the news today, saying that Queen Sono is “going to change the game for every artist on this continent.” She added, “Thank you to Netflix for believing in this idea. I cannot wait for every young woman, every woman on this continent, and actually this planet to meet Queen Sono. We’ve worked so hard on this and I cannot wait.”
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
- 12/10/2018
- by James Loke Hale
- Tubefilter.com
Quantico star Pearl Thusi is to star in Queen Sono – Netflix’s first African original series.
Thusi, who starred as series regular Dayana Mampasi in the ABC drama, is set to play a highly trained spy in a South African agency in the series.
Created by director Kagiso Lediga, who worked with Thusi in dark romantic comedy Catching Feelings, and exec producer Tamsin Andersson, who produced Catching Feelings and Lediga’s coming-of-age adventure Wizard, the series will see Thusi’s character take on dangerous missions, while also facing challenges in her personal life.
The show will launch around the world on the Svod service and will start production in 2019.
It is expected to be one of a number of African originations for Netflix as the digital platform eyes international growth in new markets.
“It’s going to change the game for every artist on this continent,” said Thusi. “I cannot wait for every young woman,...
Thusi, who starred as series regular Dayana Mampasi in the ABC drama, is set to play a highly trained spy in a South African agency in the series.
Created by director Kagiso Lediga, who worked with Thusi in dark romantic comedy Catching Feelings, and exec producer Tamsin Andersson, who produced Catching Feelings and Lediga’s coming-of-age adventure Wizard, the series will see Thusi’s character take on dangerous missions, while also facing challenges in her personal life.
The show will launch around the world on the Svod service and will start production in 2019.
It is expected to be one of a number of African originations for Netflix as the digital platform eyes international growth in new markets.
“It’s going to change the game for every artist on this continent,” said Thusi. “I cannot wait for every young woman,...
- 12/10/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix has ordered its first African original series, “Queen Sono,” a drama about a secret agent who fights crime while dealing with crises in her personal life. The series will launch globally in 2019.
“Queen Sono” stars veteran South African actress Pearl Thusi, who tweeted in an emotional video Monday that she “cannot wait for…every woman on this continent, and actually on this planet, to meet Queen Sono.” Of the deal with Netflix, she added: “It’s going to change the game for every artist on this continent.”
The announcement of the show comes barely a week after Erik Barmack, Netflix’s vice president of international originals, told a gathering in London that the company would begin commissioning original series in Africa starting in 2019.
Speaking about “Queen Sono” with South Africa’s Independent Online, Barmack said: “Taking talent like this and telling stories to the rest of the world puts...
“Queen Sono” stars veteran South African actress Pearl Thusi, who tweeted in an emotional video Monday that she “cannot wait for…every woman on this continent, and actually on this planet, to meet Queen Sono.” Of the deal with Netflix, she added: “It’s going to change the game for every artist on this continent.”
The announcement of the show comes barely a week after Erik Barmack, Netflix’s vice president of international originals, told a gathering in London that the company would begin commissioning original series in Africa starting in 2019.
Speaking about “Queen Sono” with South Africa’s Independent Online, Barmack said: “Taking talent like this and telling stories to the rest of the world puts...
- 12/10/2018
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix is crowning a new queen, with its first original African series Queen Sono.
Quantico star Pearl Thusi will star in the South Africa-set spy dramedy set to go into production next year.
Thusi announced the show in a tweet Monday, saying: “It's going to change the game for every artist on this continent.” The news was first reported by South Africa's Independent.
“Thank you to Netflix for believing in this idea,” she continued. “I cannot wait for every young woman, every woman on this continent and actually this planet to meet Queen Sono. We have ...
Quantico star Pearl Thusi will star in the South Africa-set spy dramedy set to go into production next year.
Thusi announced the show in a tweet Monday, saying: “It's going to change the game for every artist on this continent.” The news was first reported by South Africa's Independent.
“Thank you to Netflix for believing in this idea,” she continued. “I cannot wait for every young woman, every woman on this continent and actually this planet to meet Queen Sono. We have ...
- 12/10/2018
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Get ready for an all-new adrenaline-filled adventure in the next chapter of the beloved fan-favorite franchise, Scorpion King: Book of Souls, now available on Blu-ray combo pack, DVD, Digital and On Demand from Universal 1440 Entertainment, the original content production arm of Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Filled with heart-pumping action sequences and intriguing new characters, the historical fantasy film stars Zach McGowan as the legendary Scorpion King alongside Pearl Thusi as the Nubian Princess, Peter Mensah as the evil warlord and Nathan Jones as the noble guardian. Showcasing stunning visuals, Scorpion King: Book of Souls reaches new levels of adventure that will keep viewers mesmerized from start to finish.
Now you can own the Scorpion King: Book Of Souls Blu-ray. We Are Movie Geeks has 3 copies to give away. All you have to do is leave a comment answering this question: What is your favorite movie with the word ‘King’ in its title?...
Now you can own the Scorpion King: Book Of Souls Blu-ray. We Are Movie Geeks has 3 copies to give away. All you have to do is leave a comment answering this question: What is your favorite movie with the word ‘King’ in its title?...
- 11/2/2018
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Get ready for an all-new adrenaline-filled adventure in the next chapter of the beloved fan-favorite franchise, Scorpion King: Book of Souls, arriving on Blu-ray combo pack, DVD, Digital and On Demand on October 23, 2018 from Universal 1440 Entertainment, the original content production arm of Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Filled with heart-pumping action sequences and intriguing new characters, the historical fantasy film stars Zach McGowan as the legendary Scorpion King alongside Pearl Thusi as the Nubian Princess, Peter Mensah as the evil warlord and Nathan Jones as the noble guardian. Showcasing stunning visuals, Scorpion King: Book of Souls reaches new levels of adventure that will keep viewers mesmerized from start to finish.
The legendary Scorpion King returns for an epic adventure in the latest action-packed film in the franchise. In ancient Egypt, the evil warlord, Nebserek (Mensah), discovers a cursed sword that makes the one who wields it more powerful with every soul it strikes down.
The legendary Scorpion King returns for an epic adventure in the latest action-packed film in the franchise. In ancient Egypt, the evil warlord, Nebserek (Mensah), discovers a cursed sword that makes the one who wields it more powerful with every soul it strikes down.
- 9/24/2018
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
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