Netflix announces sequel to Mo Abudu’s ‘Òlòtūré’
Netflix is set to captivate audiences once again with the release of “Òlòtūré: The Journey,” the highly anticipated sequel to the critically acclaimed Nollywood film “Òlòtūré.” The new series, which continues the gripping narrative of a young journalist navigating the treacherous world of human trafficking, will debut on the streaming platform on June 28, 2024. Netflix announced the sequel in a statement to Pulse Nigeria on Thursday, May 30, 2024.
Plot and Background
“Òlòtūré: The Journey” picks up where the original 2019 film left off, following the harrowing experiences of Òlòtūré, a courageous journalist who goes undercover as a sex worker to expose corruption and human trafficking in Nigeria. As she uncovers the dark underbelly of this illicit world, she faces life-threatening dangers and struggles to survive while forging a path to Europe.
Directed by Kenneth Gyang, the series promises to delve deeper into the complexities and perils of Òlòtūré’s mission. The cast features a stellar lineup of Nollywood talent, including Sharon Ooja-Egwurube in the titular role, alongside Omoni Oboli, Beverley Osu, Ikechukwu Onunaku, Stan Nze, Amarachukwu Ono, Bukola Oladipupo, Daniel Etim Effiong, and Patrick Doyle.
Success of the Original Film
The original “Òlòtūré” film premiered on October 31, 2019, at the Carthage Film Festival in Tunisia. In September 2020, Netflix acquired the distribution rights, and the film began streaming on the platform on October 2, 2020. Just a day after its release, “Òlòtūré” quickly climbed into the top 10 most streamed films on Netflix globally, a testament to its powerful storytelling and universal appeal.
Production and Collaboration
“Òlòtūré: The Journey” is produced by EbonyLife Studios, the powerhouse behind several successful Nollywood productions. The series is part of a broader partnership between Netflix and Mo Abudu’s EbonyLife Studios, which includes the creation of two Netflix original series, multiple Netflix-branded films, and a series licensed to the streaming service. This collaboration has already yielded notable successes, including the series “Blood Sisters.”
EbonyLife Studios, founded by Mo Abudu in 2014, has been a driving force in bringing Nigerian cinema to a global audience. Abudu’s first film as an executive producer, “Fifty,” marked the beginning of a string of successful projects, including “The Wedding Party,” “The Royal Hibiscus Hotel,” “Chief Daddy,” and “Your Excellency.”
Inspiration from Real-Life Investigative Journalism
“Òlòtūré” and its sequel are inspired by a real-life investigative report by Tobore Ovuorie, a journalist with Premium Times. Ovuorie’s in-depth reporting on human trafficking and corruption in Nigeria provided a compelling and authentic foundation for the film’s narrative. The portrayal of these harrowing realities has resonated deeply with viewers, shedding light on issues that are often overlooked.
The Anticipation and Impact
The announcement of “Òlòtūré: The Journey” has sparked considerable excitement among fans and critics alike. The original film’s raw and unflinching portrayal of its subject matter earned it widespread acclaim and a dedicated following. The sequel is expected to build on this legacy, offering a deeper exploration of Òlòtūré’s journey and the broader issues surrounding human trafficking.
Sharon Ooja-Egwurube’s performance as Òlòtūré in the original film was lauded for its emotional depth and authenticity. Her return to the role promises to bring even more intensity and nuance to the character as she faces new challenges and dangers.
Industry Significance
The success of “Òlòtūré” and its sequel highlights the growing influence of Nollywood on the global stage. Nigerian cinema has increasingly gained international recognition, with platforms like Netflix providing a crucial avenue for these stories to reach a worldwide audience. The partnership between Netflix and EbonyLife Studios represents a significant step forward for the industry, showcasing the rich storytelling traditions and talent present in Nigeria.
Mo Abudu, often referred to as the “Oprah of Africa,” has been instrumental in this movement. Her vision for EbonyLife Studios has always been to tell African stories to a global audience, and her collaboration with Netflix is a testament to the quality and appeal of Nollywood productions.
