Iwájú Release Date Announced for Disney+. “Iwájú” is an all-new original long-form series created in collaboration with Pan-African comic book entertainment company Kugali. The coming-of-age story introduces Tola, a young heiress from the wealthy island, and her best friend Kole, a self-taught tech expert and loving son from the mainland.
Delayed for over a year, Disney Animation today announced that the new long-form story Iwájú will premier on Disney+, on February 28th, 2024
At the D23 Expo, a groundbreaking collaboration unfolded as Walt Disney Animation, for the first time, partnered with an external studio to bring a long-form series to Disney+. The stage welcomed Kugali filmmakers, including Olufikayo Ziki Adeola, Hamid Ibrahim, and Tolu Olowofoyeku, joined by Disney’s Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee.
In the spotlight was the series “IWÁJÚ,” a heartfelt homage to Lagos, Nigeria. Olowofoyeku and Ibrahim, on stage, unveiled the vivid characters and futuristic setting of IWÁJÚ. The series paints a visionary picture of Lagos, marked by a fusion of vibrant colors, distinctive visual elements, and technological progress inspired by the essence of the city. Lagos, portrayed as physically divided between an island and a mainland, reflects not only geographical but also socio-economic distinctions.
At its core, IWÁJÚ is a coming-of-age narrative introducing Tola, a young heiress hailing from the affluent island, and her closest companion, Kole—a self-taught tech prodigy and affectionate son from the mainland. Together, they navigate a world where the convergence of tradition and innovation sets the stage for a captivating story.
