Kunle Afolayan Discusses the Inspiration Behind ‘Aníkúlápó’ Series
Renowned director Kunle Afolayan shares insights into his creative process and the motivation behind his acclaimed ‘Aníkúlápó’ series. Following the success of the 2022 Netflix original film, Afolayan’s decision to delve deeper into the storyline was not initially planned. However, spurred by the desire to explore the lives of characters Saro and Arolake within the Old Oyo Empire, he embarked on a journey to create a captivating series that would touch on various themes, including gender dynamics and cultural intricacies.
While the original idea was to develop the story as a series, Afolayan was encouraged to prove the concept’s viability through a film format. After the success of the movie, he gained the support needed to transition the narrative into a full-fledged series, culminating in the release of ‘Aníkúlápó: Rise of the Spectre’ in March 2024. For Afolayan, the project is more than just entertainment; it’s a platform to showcase authentic African stories and challenge misconceptions about the continent’s history and culture.
Drawing from his african roots and rich Yoruba cosmology, Afolayan weaves a narrative that blends fact with fiction, offering viewers a unique perspective on societal norms and spiritual beliefs. Despite the series’ critical acclaim, it has sparked debates on social issues such as consent, prompting discussions about contemporary themes within the storyline. Ultimately, Afolayan’s work reflects his commitment to presenting diverse narratives while contributing to the global recognition of African cinema.
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