Iwaju Review: A heartwarming animated series set in a futuristic Nigeria, it has important lessons about the class divide

Iwaju

Simisola Gbadamos, Dayo Okeniyi, Femi Branch, Siji Soetani, Veruche Opiah

About Iwaju

An original animated series from Africa, Iwaju, introducing a new role model for kids, a fun and bright little girl named Tola by Omitola Martins. The only child of a hard-working but protective father, Tola proves that she can take care of herself with quick thinking on her part. Supported by Jennifer Lee, Director frozenand Byron Howard, Principal EncantoThe Nigerian series will premiere on Disney+ Hotstar on February 28.

Iwaju: plot

The six-part series is set in a futuristic interpretation of Lagos, Nigeria, with flying cars and imaginary hi-fi technology. Ten-year-old Tola (voiced by Simisola Gbadamos) lives on an island away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland where most of the population lives. Tola and her father Tunde (voice of Dayo Okeni), who grew up on the mainland, are forced to face a bad man, Bode Desouza (voiced by Femi Branch), who wants to make them pay.

Iwaju also introduces Cole (voiced by Siji Soetsan), a young man who does odd jobs for the Martin family and is Tola’s friend. There is also a very special lizard named Otin (voiced by Veruche Opiah) who was given to Tola by her father to keep. The animated series explores class and inequality between rich and poor in a sensitive manner.

Iwaju: design and direction

A science fiction animated world Iwaju Pays great attention to detail and makes sure to differentiate between the island and the mainland. The setting and characters are colorful and engaging. The biggest plus of the series is the animation of the characters. Each of them is given a distinct personality that makes them jump off the screen. Tola will be particularly appealing to the younger crowd with her edgy charm.

Although produced by Disney Animation’s Christina Chen, the series has a strong African voice as it comes from the mind of entertainment company Kugali. Director Olufikayo Ziki Adeola co-wrote the script with Halima Hudson who made sure to set the story in Nigeria. There are also jokes and references to Yoruba in the English dialogues. For many, it may even be an introduction to the country and region.

Iwaju: Criticism

The coming-of-age series centers on the island friendship between Tola, a privileged young girl, and Cole, a young boy with his heart in the right place. Iwaju has a good mix of action and fun. But more importantly, it also adds teaching moments for the youngsters, with a good lesson about stranger danger. The tricks of Otin Khvlik are also exciting. The animated series was a welcome surprise from the house of Disney and I hope we get to see more of the delightful Tola and her world. All six episodes Iwaju Now streaming on Disney+ Hotstar.