Toei Co Collaborates with Pambili Media for Historic Film on Yasuke

Toei Co has partnered with South Africa’s Pambili Media to co-produce “Yasuke – Way Of The Butterfly,” a film about an African warrior who became a samurai. Directed by Mandla Dube, the film explores Yasuke’s journey during the 16th century. This partnership signifies a new level of collaboration between Japan and Africa and reflects Toei’s strategy for international expansion in filmmaking.

Toei Co, the renowned Japanese studio, has entered a co-production agreement with South Africa’s Pambili Media, led by filmmaker Mandla Dube, for the historical film “Yasuke – Way Of The Butterfly.” This project focuses on Yasuke, a real African warrior who became a samurai in Japan, reflecting a rare collaboration between Japan and South Africa.

Dube will serve as writer and director of the film, which is included in Pambili Media’s development slate supported by the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa (IDC). The narrative is set against the Mwenemutapa Empire of Africa, exploring Yasuke’s journey to feudal Japan in the 16th century, where he earned recognition as a samurai due to his valor and skills.

This partnership, spearheaded by Yuji Kojima, Toei’s Vice President, aligns with Toei’s global expansion initiative focusing on international co-productions and original content aimed at worldwide audiences. The project signifies a new level of collaboration between Japan and Africa in the entertainment industry.

Mandla Dube is known for credits such as Netflix’s “Silverton Siege” and “Heart Of The Hunter.” The deal for “Yasuke – Way Of The Butterfly” was announced at a cocktail event in Los Angeles, attended by industry figures, including Toei Co CEO Fumio Yoshimura and Consul-General Kenko Sone, highlighting the significance of this collaboration.

Yuji Kojima expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating that bringing Yasuke’s story to the screen represents a unique opportunity to blend historical storytelling with Toei’s tradition of producing audacious narratives. Dube echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of cultural authenticity and the ambition for global impact in telling Yasuke’s story.

Toei has a rich history of samurai film production at its Kyoto studios, and the team plans to utilize these facilities for filming, seeking governmental support via Japan’s JLOX+ incentive program, recently extended for another year.

In conclusion, Toei Co’s collaboration with Pambili Media for “Yasuke – Way Of The Butterfly” showcases an exciting international partnership in filmmaking. With a focus on cultural authenticity and a compelling narrative rooted in history, this project aims to bridge gaps between continents and expand global cinema. As the film progresses, it promises to contribute significantly to cross-cultural storytelling.

Original Source: deadline.com