The coming-of-age drama is a collaborative production between South African independent production company, Diprente, and US animation giant, Skybound Entertainment.
By Helena Olori
Netflix is gearing up for the debut of its latest series, Classified, a South African coming-of-age drama with an espionage twist.
The eight-episode series, created by South African filmmaker, Kagiso Lediga, (best known for the acclaimed 2020 series, Sono Queen, and the 2023 comedy, ROSA: Republic of South Ah Sh**t!), follows the story of Ella Gardner, a 15-year-old student from Oakland, California, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes entangled in a violent protest.
Faced with arrest and the possibility of jail time, Ella is forced to leave California for Johannesburg to live with her estranged South African father to complete her education. However, her world is turned upside down as she transitions from being a normal teenager to a spy who takes on dangerous missions.
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The series boasts a stellar cast led by Imani Pullum as Ella and rising stars such as Christine Horn, Sule Rimi, Abena Ayivor, Victor Makgati, Nicola Nothnagel, Paballo Koza, and Mila Rayne amongst others.
Classified is produced by South African independent production company, Diprente, in collaboration with US animation giant, Skybound Entertainment.
Speaking on the collaboration, Kagiso Lediga, co-founder at Diprente, says, “This project allowed us to explore the complex world of espionage through the eyes of a teenage protagonist, offering a fresh perspective on the genre. The collaboration with an exceptional cast and crew has truly brought this vision to fruition.”
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Kagiso Lediga doubles as co-director and executive producer for the show. Joining him as directors are Tebogo Malope and Karabo Lediga, with Motheo Moeng serving as cinematographer.
Classified will premiere exclusively on Netflix on November 30th, 2023.
Watch the trailer video.