African Cinema Distribution In The United States .

African films have been gaining increased attention and recognition in recent years, and for good reason. These films offer a unique perspective on African culture and history that is often overlooked in mainstream media. Despite this, many African films have struggled to break into the American market, but this is slowly changing as more and more audiences are being exposed to the richness and diversity of African cinema .

One of the biggest challenges facing African films in the American market is the lack of exposure and distribution. Unlike Hollywood blockbusters, African films often have limited marketing budgets and struggle to find distribution channels outside of the continent. However, with the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, African films are starting to find a wider audience. Streaming services are actively seeking out African content, providing a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work to a global audience.

Another factor contributing to the rise of African films in the American market is the growing interest in diverse perspectives and stories. As audiences become more receptive to stories from different cultures and backgrounds, African cinema is gaining traction as a valuable source of untold stories. Filmmakers are exploring themes like identity, race, and colonialism, providing a fresh perspective on issues that are often portrayed in a Western context.

One of the most notable African films to gain recognition in the American market is "Black Panther," a superhero movie that draws heavily from African culture and mythology. The film was a massive success, grossing over $1.3 billion worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film by a black director. "Black Panther" showed that African films can not only be successful but also resonate with audiences worldwide.

Other African films that have gained recognition in the American market include "The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind," a story about a Malawian boy who builds a wind turbine to save his village from famine, and "The Wound," a coming-of-age story set in South Africa's Xhosa community. Both films have been critically acclaimed and have found audiences beyond their African origins.

Gangs of Lagos is a Nigerian crime-action thriller produced and directed by Jade Osiberu, starring Tobi Bakre, Adesua Etomi, Iyabo Ojo, Demi Banwo, Chioma Akpotha, Damilola Ogunsi, Tayo Faniran, Zlatan Ibile, Bimbo Ademoye, Toyin Abraham, Yvonne Jegede, Yinka Quadri, Chike, Pasuma and a host of others.The film premiered on Amazon Prime Video on April 7, 2023, as the first Amazon Original Movie from Africa. The acting is stellar. I've been a fan since the early days of Nollywood movies, when I used to watch them with my father. Its wonderful to now see extraordinary actors from Africa getting their shine.The acting is stellar and the diverse narratives that run through the movie are realistic.  This film deserves many awards. Well done for Amazon Prime for recognizing , and putting Nollywood talent to the forefront!

Another film worth a mention is Christmas  Love from Kenya.  Christmas  Love is a heartwarming Story about the Struggles of a man trying to Balance his time between his Family, a lucrative Career and his waning Faith. With help from the most unexpected place, Sam has to make hard Choices as he encounters the true Reason for the Season. The movie stars Mkurugenzi Abel Mutua Ekirapa Grace Robert Burale Neema Kawa Mulamwah Peter Kamau Kenya Celestine Gachuhi and Azziad Nasenya .Directed and produced by Peter Kawa . Peter Kawa is an award winning actor and one of the most prolific arts enthusiasts in the Kenyan entertainment Scene. This is Kawa’s second project as director. His first, Lost in Time (2019), won him a Best Director Kalasha award. He is also known for his acting in projects like County 49, Uradi, and Escape from Mogadishu. Christmas Love  short film has had official festival selections across the globe this past few months and still going strong. It's now available on Netflix, My Movies Africa and Safaricom Baze.

https://www.netflix.com/us/title/81659085?s=a...

Or https://baze.co.ke/drama/video/christmas-love-1

In conclusion, African films are slowly but surely making their way into the American market, offering a unique perspective on African culture and history. With the rise of streaming platforms and growing interest in diverse perspectives, African cinema is poised to become a major player in the global film industry. As audiences become more receptive to stories from different cultures and backgrounds, African films have the potential to challenge and expand our understanding of the world.

 

Thank you for reading.

Dubai Denis Maronga .