Unveiling Mfinda: JuVee Productions and N LITE Pioneer Afro-Anime Cinema

Viola Davis and Julius Tennon's production company, JuVee Productions, is expanding its horizons into the realm of animation through a groundbreaking collaboration with N LITE, a Black and Japanese-led media company and anime studio. The partnership aims to develop a series of afro-anime films that delve into the rich tapestry of Black and afro-indigenous stories, marking a significant step toward diversifying the animation landscape.

The inaugural project under this innovative alliance is a captivating epic fantasy inspired by Congolese folklore titled "Mfinda." Created by Congolese-American artist Patience Leiken and N LITE founder Christiano Terry, the film's screenplay, crafted by Donald H. Hewitt, Terry, and Leiken, promises a unique storytelling experience. D’ART Shtajio’s Arthell Isom is set to co-direct, with Japanese screenwriter Mika Abe contributing to the Japanese screenplay.

"Mfinda," unveiled at the 2023 Annecy International Animation Film Festival, will be produced in collaboration with GKIDS, the renowned producer-distributor behind hits like "The Boy and the Heron." The film will also feature the expertise of Studio M2’s Masao Maruyama and Taro Maki.

Beyond the cinematic realm, the partnership between N LITE and JuVee Productions extends its influence into merchandise, graphic novels, and manga, showcasing a commitment to exploring diverse storytelling mediums.