Toei Co and Pambili Media Forge New Path with ‘Yasuke – Way Of The Butterfly’
Toei Co has partnered with South Africa’s Pambili Media to develop the film “Yasuke – Way Of The Butterfly,” which tells the story of Yasuke, an African warrior who became a samurai in feudal Japan. The project is part of Pambili’s six-film slate supported by the IDC and aims to celebrate cultural authenticity.
Toei Co, a renowned Japanese studio, has entered into a co-production development agreement with Pambili Media, led by South African filmmaker Mandla Dube, for the historical feature film titled “Yasuke – Way Of The Butterfly”. This film narrates the story of Yasuke, an African warrior who became a samurai in Japan, marking a significant international collaboration between Japan and South Africa.
The narrative is set against the backdrop of Africa’s Mwenemutapa Empire, exploring trade ties with India, China, and East Asia. It chronicles Yasuke’s journey from Africa to feudal Japan in the 16th century, showcasing his remarkable recognition by a local lord due to his warrior skills and dignity. According to the producers, the film promises to be a monumental cinematic event rooted in untold history and intercultural connections.
The deal, spearheaded by Yuji Kojima, Toei’s Vice President, is part of the studio’s extensive strategy for international expansion through collaborations and new material aimed at a global audience. This partnership signifies an unprecedented level of collaboration in the media industry between Japan and Africa.
Mandla Dube, known for directing the Netflix film “Silverton Siege”, expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, aiming for cultural authenticity while delivering an engaging narrative. The announcement of this project took place during a cocktail event in Los Angeles on April 10, attended by key figures such as Toei Co CEO Fumio Yoshimura and dignitaries from the Japanese Consulate.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Toei Co and Pambili Media for “Yasuke – Way Of The Butterfly” represents a significant fusion of Japanese and South African cinema. This project not only brings a little-known historical figure to the forefront but also showcases the potential for international cooperation in storytelling. The involvement of skilled filmmakers like Mandla Dube and the heritage of Toei in samurai films add substantial value to this cinematic endeavor, promising a rich and authentic portrayal of Yasuke’s journey.
Original Source: deadline.com
