‘Star Wars’ actor John Boyega partners with Netflix for African content

John Boyega

Netflix has partnered with Star Wars actor John Boyega’s company UpperRoom Productions to develop non-English language content.

The independent company, founded by the British-Nigerian actor, will develop film projects based on “stories, cast, characters, crew, literary properties, mythology, screenplays and other elements in or around African countries, with a focus on West and East Africa.”

The partnership is the latest move to reinforce Netflix’s investment in African storytelling with projects developed in African countries.

The streamer recently began production on its first original scripted series from Nigeria, the as-yet untitled ‘Akin Omotoso Project’, and launched its first African original, Queen Sono, last month.

Two further African originals, the teen drama Blood & Water and the animated Mama K’s Team 4 will premiere later this year.

“Africa has a rich history in storytelling and for Netflix,” said David Kosse, VP of international film at 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.”

“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,” added Boyega. “We are proud to grow this arm of our business with a company that shares our vision.”