by Thinus Ferreira
M-Net's Mzansi Magic (DStv 161) will be rolling out 10 new mini-series starting from May, several of which are helmed by youth-led South African production companies.
The plan is to strip these new mini-series from Mondays to Wednesdays, over a 10-week period, from 11 May and into July, three nights a week.
"We are excited to be sharing stories made by exciting, talented teams who
really have their finger on the pulse," says Shirley Adonisi, director for local entertainment channels.
"The
mini-series format is a really important part of how we support
industry development and create opportunities for creatives. It gives
producers who've built
their experience in film the chance to step into series storytelling by
developing a three-part mini-series."
"The shift isn't just about format - it's about growing new skills in
writing, directing and production. Through this process, we're helping
creatives expand their
craft while opening up more opportunities for directors, writers and
production teams."
"At
the end of the day, it's about creating a pathway, one that helps
talent move from film into drama, and ultimately supports more jobs and
long-term growth in the
industry," adds Shirley Adonisi.
Included in the first six mini-series titles coming to Mzansi Magic are Love At Second Sight, produced by Ngomoya Films and starring Amanda Seome, Nduduzo Zuma, Aluve Mjali and Nimrod Nkosi.
It will air on Mzansi Magic from 11 May at 19:00. The mini-series' logline reads: "When
her long-lost first love returns as her stable fiancé’s best friend, a
successful woman must choose between the secure, prestige-filled life
her family expects
and the soulful connection she never truly outgrew."
Kuningi is from Weldun Media, the producers of Mzansi Magic films such as
Entabani and Choose May’khethela, with the series centred on a single mother who lands the biggest opportunity
of her career, only for it to reintroduce her to ghosts from the past,
unearthing unresolved issues.
Kuningi will start on 18 May at 19:00, starring Samkelo Ndlovu, Kay Sibiya, Simphiwe Ngema, Andy Mnguni and Ratanang Mogotsi.
Amanzi Endlini is another Ngomoya Films production, set in the world of a traditionally married couple exploring the
option of surrogacy.
Their decision brings complications and distrust
into their relationship. "Will they secure their legacy, or have they
invited in a force that could destroy them both?" reads the logline. Amanzi Endlini will start on 25 May at 19:00 on Mzansi Magic and the cast will be announced soon.
Ke Nyala Jwang? is produced by Pula Bakgaga Media, the production house behind
Isithembu sika Msongelwa.
According to the logline, it is a story "that explores the complexities of marriage in modern South Africa,
navigating cultural expectations and family tensions" and it will start on 1 June at 19:00.
Lobola lama 2000's logline reads "Love is simple, lobola is not. After
running into issues with his uncles, a Gen Z accountant is left with no
choice but to send his friends to represent him in his
lobola negotiations"
This mini-series will start on 8 June at 19:00 and is produced by Behind the Best. It stars Khensani Chauke, Nolwazi Tsebesha, Ntando Mazibuko, Khaya Dumakude, Edward Nkhumishe and Sonny Khwesa.
Mamfundisi Bae is scheduled to start on Mzansi Magic on 15 June at 19:00.
"A
young pastor from a modern charismatic church stirs things up in a
traditional congregation when she plans a bold send-off for the
outgoing bishop - who’s also her father-in-law. However, with this
move, she ends up clashing with the head of the women’s forum."
The cast of
Mamfundisi Bae must still be announced with the series that is produced by Mthakathi Entertainment.
