A number of African producers have been named among those to watch out for at international TV content market MipTV, which is being held from April 17 to 19 in Cannes, France.
They include Nigerian producer Damilola Solesi, CEO of Lagos-based studio Smids Animation. Solesi has produced several animated series for clients, including Makerbolts and Abi’s Mission, and is currently in production on a first animated series animated series of her own, titled UYI.
“I am super honoured to be named among the MipTV Producers to Watch 2023. I am grateful for the recognition of our work in kids’ content and we hope to bring even more amazing projects to audiences around the world,” she said.
Meanwhile, Asurf Oluseyi, founder of Asurf Films, will show off an eight-episode series titled 3 Cold Dishes. He is looking to partner with coproducers, coproduction companies and executive producers.
Omoyefe Majorah, founder of Blac Onyx Studios, will showcase her 3D animation series Omenaesan, which is still in the development stage.
Yetunde Ogundipe of Beereel Pictures is bringing her collaborative skills as an African storyteller. “Collaboration is essential to success in the industry. So far, it is what has made animation in Nigeria develop into the state it is at the moment,” she said.
“Building relationships with fellow animators, producers and directors, not just from Africa but all over the world, can lead to new opportunities and successful projects. I’m also bringing my eye for details and nose for unique stories.”
“Aside from an opportunity to learn, showcase my work and stay up todate with the latest developments in the industry, I’m also looking to network with other stop-motion animators and producers, and hopefully to get funding opportunities for upcoming projects.”
In addition, Chichi Nworah of Giant Creative Studios will present Nightmare, which is in development, and a slate of African and diversity-focused series and films in development for international coproduction .
From South Africa, Benito Carelsen of BLC Entertainment will showcase children’s educational and entertainment videos, animated short films, TV series, pilots and documentaries, while Balungile Mteto of JJ Film Studios will look to demonstrate his creativity, vision and passion as he seeks international partnerships.
Other African companies that will be in attendance include Digital Play Africa, Royal Arts Academy, FilmOne Entertainment, Aforevo TV, MultiChoice Group, SuperTV, Asake Producers and Xandria Productions.
tagged in: Asurf Films, Beereel Pictures, Blac Onyx Studios, BLC Entertainment, Giant Creative Studios, JJ Film Studios, MipTV, Smids Animation