BEVERLY HILLS, September 28, (THEWILL) – Leading Nigerian film shop, Inkblot Productions, has entered into a deal with Netflix to helm a new original drama series for the US streaming platform.
Netflix announced the deal alongside agreements for three new classic films from the African continent – Òlòtūré, ‘Citation’ and ‘King of Boys II’ – from filmmakers Mo Abudu, Kunle Afolayan and Kemi Adetiba.
The new series and films, which are at different stages of production will join the growing slate of Nigerian content on the streaming platform and debut to 193 million members in 190 countries around the world, the streaming giant stated in a statement.
The new original series “Far From Home” is a six-part series created by Chinaza Onuzo and Dami Elebe.
Produced by Inkblot Productions, it follows the story of Ishaya, “a charismatic teenager and talented artist from a poor family, whose dreams suddenly appear within reach when a prestigious scholarship to the most exclusive school in the country catapults him into the luxurious world of Nigeria’s 1% – all while a huge secret threatens his newfound status and, ultimately, his family’s safety.
Actor-producer Funke Akindele is confirmed for a lead role in the upcoming Inkblot/Netflix series, while Zulumoke Oyibo and Damola Ademola will serve as executive producers.
“These Netflix original films demonstrate how we’re building a home for the best-in-class Nigerian content for our members in Nigeria and beyond,” said Ben Amadasun, Netflix’s director of licensing and co-productions in Africa.
“It’s amazing to see how Nigerian films and series resonate with audiences around the world. By making it easy for people to watch films and shows from other countries, we can help them build empathy and develop a shared understanding of the world.”
Dorothy Ghettuba, the lead for African originals at Netflix said in the statement, “Netflix is proud to continue to invest in more original content from Nigeria. We’re also thrilled to grow our existing creative partnerships while forming new ones with Chinaza and the amazing Inkblot team who will now join the growing list of Nigerian partners.”
Reacting to the deal, an excited Inkblot’s creative, Onuzo said “We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Netflix team to tell the story of Nigerian youth on a global scale. We cannot wait to share with the world what it feels like to grow up in one of the most dynamic countries on the planet.”
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