Both Worlds (South Africa) and Atlanta-based Freeli Films just announced a formal co-production alliance at the Joburg Film Festival. Their mission: fast, bold storytelling — think phone-first microdramas and feature films shot across South Africa, other African countries and the U.S, built for south african, wider African and American audiences before aiming for global homes.
Quick facts – Partners: Both Worlds and Freeli Films – New label: Amazi — focused on premium, short-form vertical content and English co-productions that pair African performers with well-known international actors – Where: Shoots across the African continent with production hubs in South Africa, plus U.S. partnerships – Formats: Short-form vertical microdramas and feature projects, mobile-first distribution strategy – Festival moment: Announcement made at the Joburg Film Festival (panel on microdrama set for March 5; festival runs March 3–8) – Early talent: Taye Diggs is attached to at least one co-production; production of initial microdramas reportedly began – Leadership: Flavia Motsisi appointed chief creative officer for Amazi; veteran writer-producer Karen Jeynes in senior creative roles
What is Amazi? Amazi is Both Worlds’ new creative label built for how people actually watch now — vertical, bite-sized stories in local languages and English co-productions that mix African leads with international names. The idea is simple: authentic local storytelling packaged for mobile screens and modern attention spans.
Why this matters The strategy recognizes two realities: much of Africa watches on phones, and global platforms are hungry for fresh, local perspectives. By pairing regional casts and native-language scripts with recognizable international talent, the partners want to make content that feels real at home and sells abroad.
Format and distribution strategy – Short episodes, vertical framing, compact storytelling created for mobile viewing. – Distribution will lean heavily on mobile-first channels and deals with major mobile operators across Africa to reach large, underserved audiences. – Episodes will also be structured to play on digital platforms and in festival circuits to attract global distributors.
Talent and the first slate Both Worlds and Freeli plan a mixed slate: hyperlocal microdramas alongside larger feature co-productions. The companies say the aim is to spotlight African screen talent while increasing marketability with international casting. Taye Diggs is already linked to a project; Flavia Motsisi (now Amazi’s CCO) and Karen Jeynes are leading creative oversight.
What’s next Details on specific titles, full cast lists, production timelines and distribution partners are still being finalized. Executives promise more announcements as contracts and platform deals lock in. Expect updates on release windows and finalized distribution agreements in the coming weeks and months.
Voices from the deal – Flavia Motsisi: Amazi responds to how African audiences watch — on phones, in local languages, with stories that reflect everyday life. – Thierry Cassuto (Both Worlds): The partnership speeds Amazi’s international reach while keeping local storytelling front and center. – J. Carter (Freeli Films): Centering Black talent is core to the strategy; it’s a forward-looking investment in creative and market growth. Keep an eye on the Joburg Festival updates and the partners’ next announcements for cast and platform news.