The new animated comic book series, Iwájú is a “first of its kind collaboration” between Disney Animation and the Pan-African entertainment company, Kugali. “Iwájú” is a Yoruba word that loosely translates to “future.” And in this new original series, which debuts today, the future is unquestionably a must-see!
So, just what can viewers expect from the this six-episode series? Well, according to Disneyplus.com, check out a brief synopsis below.
Iwájú is an original animated series set in a futuristic Lagos, Nigeria. The exciting coming-of-age story follows Tola, a young girl from the wealthy island, and her best friend, Kole, a self-taught tech expert, as they discover the secrets and dangers hidden in their different worlds.
The series is produced by Disney Animation’s Christina Chen with a screenplay by Adeola and Halima Hudson. The Iwájú voice cast include: Simisola Gbadamosi, Dayo Okeniyi, Femi Branch, Siji Soetan and Weruche Opia.
Kugali filmmakers on the project include: director Olufikayo Ziki Adeola, production designer Hamid Ibrahim and cultural consultant Toluwalakin Olowofoyeku.
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ chief creative officer, Jennifer Lee, told Deadline that the series will also explore “deep themes of class, innocence and challenging the status quo”.
Lee said that she was “intrigued” by the comic book when she read a BBC article saying that there were hopes that the comic book would, “kick Disney’s arse”.
“Here was three talented comic book artists. Their dream was to bring African stories created by African artist to the world, highlighting the diversity of cultures, histories and voices across the continent. Their talents as storytellers blew us away. I’m proud to announce the first of its kind collaboration to bring original long for series to Disney+,” she concluded.
“Crafting the narrative of ‘Iwájú’ has been a journey of creative alchemy, blending the rich cultural tapestry of Lagos with imaginative leaps into the future,” Adeola said via Disneyplus.com. “Collaborating with my Kugali co-founders and the visionary artists at Walt Disney Animation Studios has been nothing short of magical. The heartbeat of my hometown resonates through every scene, and I am thrilled for the world to experience this unique fusion of tradition and futurism.”
Iwájú is streaming now exclusively on Disney+.
Photo: Walt Disney Studios; Disney Animation/Kugali Media
