News on movies, animation, comics, gaming and tech. Want to know what’s happening in Africa and beyond? Here’s the Run Down for this week.
NEWS OUT OF AFRICA – Animation/Gaming
Super Sema is Making an Impact!
If the name doesn’t ring a bell, Super Sema is the new African animated series making an impact on YouTube Originals.
Set in a futuristic African village called Dunia, The STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) based show follows the story of a young girl named Sema, who uses technology and creativity to save her village from an evil robot.
Released on 8 March, 2021, the 20 episode show has already garnered over 15 million viewers. But whilst the show has gained much popularity, a series is not all that it aims to be.
The Future of Super Sema
According to the series creators, KUKUA, their desire is to expand Super Sema into a franchise that will include costumes, comic books, VR and augmented reality learning experiences, toys and maybe even a Semaland theme park.
This all lines up with the studio’s aim to create a fun learning experience for children all around the world and hopefully become “the Mickey Mouse of Africa.”
But in the meantime, as they wait for their dreams to be realised, KUKUA will be working on Season 2 of their flagship title.
Find out more https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-06-24/super-sema-marks-african-animated-tv-shows-on-netflix-nflx-disney-dis
Afrika Toons is Honouring African History
Ivorian animation studio, Afrika Toon is all about promoting African culture and celebrating the stories of legendary African heroes and the company has realised its vision through the creation of several animated short films and feature films.
Now the Abidjan-based company will be honouring African history with yet another animated series.
Little Pokou Season 2 Has Premiered!
Inspired by the true story of 18th century Ashanti princess, Abla Pokou, Little Pokou is an animated series that explores the history of the country now known as the Ivory Coast. The series has had one season so far and now season two is here!
The series second season promises to draw audiences into the centre of the ancient Ashanti kingdom and once there, teach them lessons on values and community life. Viewers will also discover more about African traditions and Akan culture.
To check out the premiere of Little Pokou Season 2, tune in to Afrika Toons’ YouTube Channel.
Check out the teaser trailer here https://youtu.be/1ZPcqAOIDOE
NEWS BEYOND AFRICA – Movies/Entertainment
Meet the Antagonists
After years of attempting to take over the world, supervillains Destructus and Ultima finally got one step closer to their wish after winning an attack on the capital. But then, they disappear.
Unknown to anyone, the couple retire and settle down and become known simply as Calvin and Tonya Eval, hardworking and loving parents to their three kids. But the new life is not as easy as they would hope, as the past soon comes back to haunt the Evals, forcing them back into action to protect their family.
Created by Tyler F. Martin, The Antagonists is a comic series that redefines the meaning of villainy all whilst tackling issues faced in modern society from race and class to the ruling elite. Unique and with a fresh perspective, this recently created comic series is now already on its way to television.
The Antagonists are Going on Television
In an article published on 16, July 2021, Deadline revealed that Godhood Comics’ hit series The Antagonists will be adapted for television by Braham Entertainment.
Head of Braham Entertainment, Noel Braham has expressed that he is excited for this upcoming production as it “provides a fresh and innovative perspective into topical issues and characters that aren’t typically represented in mainstream Hollywood.”
Meanwhile creator, Tyler F. Martin is looking forward to having an “authentic representation of the African American family” whilst also telling a story that will appeal to “the underdog, the little guy and those of us who feel unseen and unheard.”
Check out more https://deadline.com/2021/07/antagonists-comics-series-tv-adaptation-1234794530/
CNS Teams up with Hair Love’s Director for Battu
Cartoon Network Studios (CNS) has teamed up with award-winning director, Chaz Bottoms, and Academy Award-winning filmmaker Matthew A. Cherry (Hair Love) to create a project that combines animation and music in a beautiful coming of age story.
Derived from the French word for “beat”, Battu is the name of the comedic series that will follow the lives of gifted dancers, Otis and Jada.
After being ostracised in the rigid world of mainstream dance, the two find a home for their free spirits at a struggling hiplet (a dance style that combines hip-hop and ballet) studio.
Whilst still in development, Battu will boast an original soundtrack and promises to explore themes of courage, perseverance and the power of friendship.
Find out more https://www.animationmagazine.net/tv/cartoon-network-gets-in-step-with-matthew-cherry-chaz-bottoms-for-battu/