The Star Wars actor, John Boyega and his UpperRoom Productions have signed a deal with Netflix to develop films focusing on African content (non-English films focusing on West and East Africa).
Currently, three features are included in the multiyear deal, including two from Nigeria and one from Egypt. Netflix stated that the indie production house founded by Boyega “will develop film projects based on stories, cast, characters, crew, Nollywood classics, literary properties, mythology, screenplays and/or other elements in or around African countries.”
Announcing this, Boyega shared the news on his twitter handle saying, “I am thrilled to partner with Netflix to develop a slate of non-English language feature films focused on African stories, and my team and I are excited to develop original material.”
I am thrilled to announce that my production company, UpperRoom Productions, will be partnering with Netflix International, to develop a slate of non English feature films. https://t.co/n0xUlLqRaO
— John Boyega (@JohnBoyega) March 10, 2020
“We are proud to grow this arm of our business with a company that shares our vision.” Boyega stated.
Recently, Netflix has already started showcasing content from Africa. The streaming company released Queen Sono on Feb. 28, a six-part drama series set in Africa. Coming up later this year are two more African originals; an animated series called Mama K’s Team 4 and a South African teen drama titled Blood & Water.
Reacting to the deal, the Vice President of international film at Netflix, David Kosse said “Africa has a rich history in storytelling, and for Netflix, this partnership with John and UpperRoom presents an opportunity to further our investment in the continent while bringing unique African stories to our members both in Africa and around the world.”
Boyega is well known for being cast as a lead protagonist in the 2015 movie Star Wars: The Force Awakens. He played the character named Finn, who was a black stormtrooper in the storied franchise.
