Culture

Zambia’s first feature film on Netflix set for release

Published

1 year ago

August 25, 2023

Zambian’s first ever film to be featured on global streaming platform, Netflix, will be released on Sunday, August 27, according to a press release by the outfit.

The movie is the first feature film out of Zambia to hit the global platform, Netflix on 27th August 2023. Set your reminders on Netflix and enjoy this one-of-a-kind story out of Africa to the world.

The movie, “Can you see us?” written by one of Zambia’s most prolific and legendary script writers, Lawrence Thompson, was filmed in Zambia in 2021 with a cast of over 150 actors and crew members, with Kenny Roc Mumba, a recipient of the renowned Lories Award and Promax Award, directing, and produced by multiple award winning a pan-African producer, Yasmin Dodia.

According to a profile of the film,”Can You See Us?” tells the true life story of a young boy named Joseph who has albinism and emphasises the various difficulties he encounters as he grows older and how music and love help him to cope with them.

“It is a suspenseful tale of variety and self-discovery that is both inspirational and aspirational. The movie’s emotional appeal touches everyone’s heartstrings and inspires a shift in perception of others around the world who are albino. The story transcends the boundaries of culture, religion, race, and nationality,” it says.

“Produced by Yasmin Dodia, one of few female pan-African producers with unwavering passion for African stories, her pursuit of excellence, and her ability to create authentic and impactful content that continues to inspire and captivate audiences while leaving a lasting impression.”

Dodia, who also spoke on the film, said:

“To add an element of authenticity to the scene, we asked a random actor to portray the character’s father. Little did we know that this decision would lead to an unexpected revelation.

“As the audition unfolded, Thabo, the young girl we had brought in, blew everyone away. Her performance was nothing short of extraordinary, confirming the producers’ instincts were spot on.

“But what shocked us even more was the unexpected talent of the random actor we had chosen to play the father. His portrayal surpassed all the other candidates we had shortlisted. It was clear that fate had intervened, and we had stumbled upon an incredible duo that would bring our story to life in ways we could never have imagined.

“Can You See Us” is a film that challenges preconceived notions, explores the depths of human connection and delves into the complexities of perception.

“It is a testament to the power of embracing the unexpected and finding beauty in the unconventional. Through this story, we aim to shed light on the experiences of those living with albinism, breaking down barriers and fostering understanding,” she added.

The upcoming release of the feature film is coming barely a month after Netflix released Africa’s first-ever original animated series “Supa Team 4,” created by Zambian writer, Malenga Mulendema.

Related Topics:Featured Film Movie Netflix Zambia

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Culture

Chidimma Adetshina makes history as she emerges first runner-up for Miss Universe 2024

Published

7 hours ago

November 17, 2024

Isaac Dachen

Chidimma Adetshina, Nigeria’s representative at the 73rd Miss Universe Competition held in Mexico, made history as she finished as the first runner-up at the pageant.

The reigning Miss Universe Nigeria finished on the podium of the event held at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City on Sunday morning after an electrifying final face-off between Nigeria and Denmark, as the two women looked poised to claim the crown.

Adetshina, who competed against over 120 contestants from around the world, delivered Nigeria’s best-ever performance in the prestigious competition.

The competition, which was described as one of the most thrilling in recent years, celebrated the talents, intelligence, and elegance of women from around the globe.

A post by the pageant organizers on Instagram said:

“The final two! Nigeria and Denmark, two incredible women, one unforgettable moment.

“Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, ultimately won the crown taking over from Miss Universe 2023, Sheynnis Palacios of Nicaragua.”

The top five were rounded out by Miss Mexico, María Fernanda Beltrán Figueroa, in third place, along with contestants from Thailand and Venezuela.

This year’s pageant was celebrated as one of the most inclusive in Miss Universe history, featuring first-time entries from Iran and Somalia and an expanded lineup of 30 semifinalists, showcasing greater diversity and global representation.

Chidimma’s path to the Miss Universe Nigeria was controversial at best as she had previously entered the Miss South Africa pageant but withdrew following criticism of her nationality and allegations from South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs concerning her mother’s documents.

She was later invited to participate in Miss Universe Nigeria and emerged as the winner of the beauty pageant ahead of 24 other contestants.

Culture

Tyla set to drop new single ‘Tears’ on November 20

Published

3 days ago

November 14, 2024

Isaac Dachen

South African “Ampiona” crooner, Tyla, is set to thrill her fans to her new single titled, “Tears’, which is set to drop on November 20.

According to a statement by her management team, Tyla’s fans should expect something different from the “Water” singer as she is set to release a brand-new single in collaboration with Coke Studio.

“This exciting partnership follows her announcement as part of the Coke Studio 2024 line-up alongside R&B star Usher Raymond in September,” the statement said.

Tyla who is fondly called the “Pretty girl from Joburg,” also took to her Instagram page to share the news with her fans.

Posting a snippet of the video on her Instagram story with the caption, “‘Tears’ coming November 20th! A song in partnership with @CocaCola”, confirming the November release date, she urged her fans to look forward to something different from what they are used to.

The brand has also shared on its social media platforms that Tyla will be performing this highly-anticipated single when she returns to Johannesburg, South Africa, at a special Coke Studio live event.

In an interview with Coke Studio, the 22-year-old singer shared how she breaks away from her original sound with “Tears”.

“I feel like in a lot of my songs, I’m dancing a lot. I really wanted a song where I could just sing, be more raw with people, and showcase my voice this time,” she said.

Snippets from the new single has showcases Tyla’s enchanting vocals, revealing a more vulnerable side that is different from her previous work.

“Breaking away from the amapiano and pop sound she’s best known for, Tyla embarks on an exciting new journey with this project,” one of the reviews said.

“Through “Tears”, she wants to connect with listeners in a raw, captivating way as she partners with Coke Studio to bring this new sound to life.’