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Showbiz Reporter

South African creative director and film producer Mandla N is reshaping the film industry by funding his own productions and licensing them to broadcasters, rather than selling them outright.

Mandla N, through his company Black Brain Pictures, recently licensed two new projects to Netflix: a movie titled “Mr Easy Loo” and a drama series, “Mabaso Family Reunion”, both set to premiere this November.

Explaining the shift, Mandla N shared his focus on retaining full ownership of his work.
“We decided to license these projects to Netflix instead of selling them,” he said.

“This way, Black Brain Pictures retains full rights to these productions. Once the license expires in a few years, we can renew or explore deals with other broadcasters.”

He described this model as a step toward creative independence.
“This is the year of ownership for us. We’re moving away from the traditional model that takes our hard work permanently. Licensing our work gives us control and the freedom to repurpose, resell, or even adapt our projects internationally.”

Mandla N highlighted the disadvantages of selling creative work, noting that creators lose all rights and future earnings potential once a project is sold.
“When you sell a movie or series to a broadcaster, they control it completely. They can resell it, repeat it on screen, and you receive nothing as the creator.”

Black Brain Pictures is home to hard-hitting content in South Africa including The Black Door, DiepCity, Vula Vala, Meet Melusi, Boxing Day, Lockdown, SesTopLa and Side Dish.
“The Mabaso Family Reunion” stars Bonko Khoza, Jerry Mofokeng, Natasha Thahane, and Lerato Mvelase. Mandla N described the show as a dark comedy about siblings who, after losing their mother, receive a life-altering surprise in a mysterious box on the day of the funeral. “This project also showcases new talents working behind the scenes,” he added.

By choosing licensing over traditional sales, Mandla N is championing a sustainable model that may empower more African filmmakers to protect and profit from their work. – Online