The Brief
Bomb Shelter
Produced for MultiChoice by the award-winning Bomb Productions, Shaka-ILembe is a 12-part epic historical drama about King Shaka the great and his generation. In the research and actual production, Bomb Shelter needed a company that would, from the start to the end, assist with authenticity and research.
Produce a historical drama on the making of a iconic African king, Shaka kaSenzangakhona.
- Striking a balance between historical authenticity and drama.
- Assist in the creation of a story plot that is inescapable with cultural references, colloquialisms, mythologies and the designed look of the series, with unprecedented commitment to authenticity.
- Captivate global audiences and celebrate the rich Zulu and Nguni cultural heritage.
- Organise a Colloquium on ‘Contextualising the Shakan Era’. The broad aim of the colloquium was to develop and expand Zulu scholarship through research and information dissemination.
- Work with the production and the channel in developing a marketing strategy that will be rolled out through advertising, social media and public relations.
A Triumph in Viewer Engagement and Acclaim
In the realm of entertainment, Shaka Ilembe emerged as DSTV’s premier drama, achieving remarkable results that underscore its widespread popularity:
- Record-Breaking Viewership:
- Shaka Ilembe made an indelible mark by breaking rating records, captivating a staggering 3.6 million viewers in its inaugural week.
- Notably, the series soared to the top spot on the DStv App in key African territories, including Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and numerous others.
2. Visual Splendor and Authenticity:
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- Season 1 of Shaka Ilembe captivated audiences with its visually compelling narrative, complemented by stellar performances.
- The series’ commitment to respectful authenticity, coupled with outstanding entertainment value, offered viewers a riveting exploration of the origins of the legendary African King. The season culminated in the triumphant return of Shaka to reclaim the Zulu throne.
3. Renewed Commission for Season 2:
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- Boasting an impressive fanbase and garnering rave reviews, Shaka Ilembe has secured its place in the limelight with the commissioning of a highly anticipated second season.
These outstanding results affirm Shaka Ilembe not only as a ratings powerhouse but also as a cultural phenomenon that resonates across diverse African audiences. The series’ unique blend of visual prowess, authentic storytelling, and sheer entertainment has solidified its status as a standout drama series in the competitive landscape of African television.
