Deputy Minister Zoku Godlimpi of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) recently visited the Cape Town Film Studios. This is the filming hub for Season 2 of Netflix’s One Piece.
VISITING THE ‘ONE PIECE’ SET
The visit showcased the remarkable creative talent and sustainable filmmaking practices driving South Africa’s growing global reputation in the film industry.
The production is powered by over 250 solar panels. This makes it independent of the national electricity grid.
The Deputy Minister praised these efforts during his visit.
“Today I visited Netflix South Africa and the production set for One Piece, serviced by Film Afrika Entertainment.
We’re committed as government in supporting the creative industry as a key pillar of our industrial economy, in order to position it as a global hub for film,” he said.
CREATIVES HARD AT WORK FOR ‘ONE PIECE’ SEASON 2
The Deputy Minister was given an exclusive tour of the sprawling set.
He watched the cast in action and explored the prosthetics and lighting departments. He also witnessed the intricate craftsmanship of local technicians.
The visit highlighted the important contributions of South African creatives to the global series.
This live-action adaptation of Japan’s legendary manga series, created by Eiichiro Oda, brings a high-seas adventure to life.
THE ‘ONE PIECE’ STORY
One Piece follows the journey of Monkey D. Luffy. Luffy is a young adventurer on a quest to find the fabled treasure, the ‘One Piece’, and become King of the Pirates, according to Polygon.
Netflix’s investment in One Piece underscores the economic benefits of hosting international productions in South Africa, according to Tudum.
Season 1 alone injected R 897 millioninto the local economy, benefiting 625 service providers, most of them small businesses.
It also created 1,000 full-time equivalent jobs, with 27% of these positions filled by women.
WORLD CLASS PRODUCTION
The production also launched the Academy of Creative Excellence (ACE) mentorship programme in partnership with the South African Film Academy.
This initiative trained 32 young creatives and technicians, offering valuable experience on a world-class production.
Season 1 of One Piece became a worldwide hit.
It reached Netflix’s Top 10 in 93 countries and won acclaim for its authenticity and engaging storytelling.
SOUTH AFRICAN TALENT
This success underscores South Africa’s capability to deliver quality productions for a global audience.
Local talents have played an integral role in the series.
More than 50 South African cast members brought their unique flair to the production, showcasing the country’s rich pool of acting talent.
Cape Town Film Studios continues to attract international productions. This cements South Africa’s reputation as a desirable filming destination.
NURTURING THE CREATIVE INDUSTRY
The combination of skilled professionals, state-of-the-art facilities, and government support is driving this growth.
Deputy Minister Godlimpi’s visit reinforces the government’s commitment to nurturing the creative industry.
Initiatives like these not only spotlight South African talent but also stimulate the economy and create sustainable job opportunities.
‘ONE PIECE’ SEASON 2
With One Piece Season 2 in full swing, the collaboration between Netflix, Film Afrika Entertainment, and South African creatives is proving to be a winning formula for success, according to Nexus Hub.
For South Africans, this milestone is a reminder of the potential that lies within the local creative industry—a treasure worth pursuing.
HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT’S EFFORTS TO SUPPORT THE CREATIVE INDUSTRY?
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