Streaming platform Netflix continues to make good it’s regional programming promise by releasing a slate of African Originals that will include local-language series, feature films and non-fiction projects. All projects will be produced in Africa and are either out now our slated for release later this year and into 2023.
Here’s a selection of the best African Originals to watch on Netflix.
Elesin Oba The King’s Horseman
Based on real-life events and adapted from Wole Soyinka’s acclaimed play Death and the King’s Horseman, the release of this film has received much fanfare. The hotly anticipated Elesin Oba The King’s Horseman will premier on Netflix on September 10. Directed by Nigerian novelist and director Biyi Bandele, the film will stay close to the original work. Set in the Oyo Empire in the 1940s, where the king has just died and tradition dictates his right-hand man, the King’s Horseman must commit suicide to ensure the King’s passage into the afterlife. Despite best intentions, the ritual is badly derailed as the day goes on, leading to deadly clashes with the British. The cast includes Shaffy Bello and Deyemi Okanlawon.
Ludik
Ludik is Netflix’s first ever Afrikaans language drama and is slated for release on August 26. Coming in six parts, the series stars South African-born Arnold Vosloo as the lead actor. Daan Ludik, Rob van Vuuren and Zane Meas all co-star in this gripping story of a tycoon who uses his diamond smuggling operation to save a kidnapped family member.
King of Queenstown
Set in South Africa, Kings of Queenstown tells the story of a young football prodigy who finds it difficult to juggle his bourgeoning career and manage his washed-up, pro-footballer father. The film is directed by Jahmil XT Qubeka and stars Zolisa Xaluva. No trailers as yet, but Kings of Queenstown is set to launch via the streaming site on November 4.
The Brave Ones
Inspired by African folklore, The Brave Ones is a supernatural series set in modern-day South Africa. The Netflix original tells the story of a mighty goddess who is reincarnated as a young woman and utilises her supernatural powers to avenge the death of her sister. The supernatural series will release on Netflix on September 16.
Finally, Netflix has also pledged to make a sequel to the South African hit show iNumber Number that will release early in 2023. With the streaming giant planning to invest $56 million into South African productions across 2022-2023, expect more original programming to hit your screens very soon.
