Netflix Previews Its South African Partnerships At MIP Africa
Netflix Previews Its South African Partnerships At MIP Africa. Netflix presented a preview of upcoming programming for the end of 2023 and into 2024 at MIP Africa during a panel session entitled See What’s Next on Netflix. In addition, the streaming service presented its multi-title partnerships with local filmmakers who will create a diverse range of stories across genres.
Also announced were several multi-title partnerships with acclaimed South African filmmakers and production houses. This is the most significant expansion so far as Netflix ramps up investment in the South African film and television industry.
Initially announced in 2022 and the first deal of its kind with a South African filmmaker, acclaimed writer, producer and director, Mandla Dube partnered with Netflix on a three-picture deal, the first project of which, Heart of the Hunter, will be coming to Netflix in the first quarter of 2024. Mandla has previously directed the Netflix film, Silverton Siege, while also having directed several episodes of the Netflix South Africa series, JIVA!
Netflix shared its local partnerships with acclaimed local filmmakers and production houses including:
- Akin Omotoso and Ochre Media for multiple-title books adaptation partnership;
- Local and international director Donovan Marsh (iNumber Number, Spud & Spud 2, Hunter Killer and I Am All Girls) on a three-picture film partnership, the first of which was the recently released Netflix film, iNumber Number: Fool’s Gold.
- Award winning Film and TV production company, Gambit Films, on a multi-title partnership across various genres and formats (series and films). The team at Gambit Films are behind the hit Netflix South Africa series Blood & Water and Unseen starring Gail Mabalane.
- Writer, producer and director, Jayan Moodley (The Kandasamys franchise) on a three-picture partnership starting off with the next instalment of the Kandasamys series of films, Kandasamys: The Baby currently in production.
- Award winning production house Stained Glass Productions lead by acclaimed producers Gugu Zuma-Ncube and Pepsi Pokane, on a multi-title book adaptation partnership across a variety of genres.
- Acclaimed producers Mandla Ngcongwane and Mpumelelo Nhlapo and their award- winning production house, Black Brain Pictures on a multi-title partnership for films and series.
Ben Amadasun, Netflix’s VP of Content for Middle East and Africa: “We are incredibly excited to continue with our investment in South African storytelling and to expand our relationships with these amazing storytellers. 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. This is why we’re committed to investing in South Africa’s creative industry and showcasing the incredible talent the country has to offer. ”
