Kenyans have proven that they love their own Kenyan actors. Demand for local content has risen and Netflix is embracing modern Kenya
The Kenyan film industry has faced some controversial harsh restrictions in recent years, leading to the banning of films such as Wanuri Kahiu’s lesbian romance, Rafiki. The Kenya Film Classification Board banned this movie for reportedly ‘promoting homosexuality’. This has made it difficult for filmmakers and Kenyan actors to portray some themes.
A major challenge for most in the Kenyan film industry has been getting funding. Most Kenyan films are sponsored by international development organizations and that’s the main reason behind the need to offer a safer option; edutainment.
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Country Queen
However, a shift from ‘edutainment’ appears to be just what the fans of good local content need. The bold decision to portray themes such as corruption, land grabbing, and dating has proved decisive in how Kenyans embraced Kenya’s first series on Netflix, Country Queen. The series portrays both urban and rural Kenya and is described as a celebration of the Kenyan language, culture, and personality. During its Netflix premiere on July 15, Country Queen’s executive producer Vincent Mbaya said, “Our country is in a critical transition politically, socially, and economically,”
“We are so used to seeing characters from other nations on our screens, so I really hope this series becomes a celebration of who we are, our culture, our languages, and our personalities.”
Disconnect 2: Coming Soon
Netflix romcom Disconnect 2 is also set to premiere in December this year. Renowned actor Pascal Tokodi, Brenda Wairimu, and new addition Catherine Kamau (Kate Actress) are set to play the lead roles. Patricia Kihoro and Brian Ogola are also set to play significant roles. The story of “Disconnect” centers on a group of single people who become lost in Nairobi’s chaotic dating environment.
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The rom-com made its debut in 2018 and in October 2020, the series was the third Kenyan production to appear on Netflix. An ecstatic Kate Actress expressed her happiness at sharing a main role in the movie with Pascal Tokodi, something she had always desired, “Playing lead with Pascal Tokodi was a dream come true. Tosh Gitonga, What a stellar, Brenda Wairimu, Patricia Kihoro and Brian Ogola. Disconnect 2.”
The Future is bright for Kenyan Actors on Netflix
According to a 2021 UNESCO report, the adoption of streaming services like Netflix has increased in Kenya over the past several years as a result of faster internet and better mobile coverage. For the longest time, this has been the missing link. By utilizing the internet to share and monetize their work, creators are flourishing in the film industry and can now work with no influence of “gatekeepers.”
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