Afrofuturism, the melding of African heritage and speculative storytelling, has been making waves in mainstream media with works like Marvel Studios' Black Panther (2018). Two standout animated projects on Disney+ – Iwájú and Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire – take this movement to new heights, delivering bold, visually arresting, and deeply resonant narratives that celebrate African creativity in ways we’ve rarely seen before.
Iwájú: a futuristic vision of Lagos
Developed through a collaboration between Walt Disney Animation Studios and the Pan-African entertainment company Kugali, Iwájú envisions a Lagos that is both thrillingly futuristic and unmistakably rooted in Nigerian culture. The title, Yoruba for "the future," signals the show’s ambition – this is no generic sci-fi cityscape, but a world where cutting-edge technology coexists with the rich traditions of one of Africa’s most vibrant metropolises.
At its heart, Iwájú follows a bright, determined young girl from a privileged background and her street-smart best friend as they navigate a society shaped by class divides, rapid technological advancements, and their own evolving perspectives. It’s a classic coming-of-age story with a fresh, Afrofuturist twist.
The animation is stunning – breaking away from Disney’s usual look in favour of Kugali’s unique artistic sensibilities. The streets of Lagos are alive with neon-lit skyscrapers, self-driving cars, and the pulsating rhythms of Afrobeat. Yet for all its sci-fi spectacle, Iwájú never loses sight of its emotional core, making it as thought-provoking as it is visually mesmerising.
Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire: a Pan-African sci-fi anthology
If Iwájú offers a singular vision of Afrofuturism, Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire explodes with variety. Produced by Triggerfish Animation and helmed by a dynamic lineup of African filmmakers, this ten-episode anthology is a wild ride through the continent’s many cultures, myths and futuristic imaginings.
Each episode introduces a bold new world where African folklore collides with cutting-edge sci-fi. From futuristic warriors protecting their homelands to mischievous kids exploring surreal, dystopian cityscapes, Kizazi Moto delivers a dazzling mix of action, humour and philosophy. No two stories are alike, yet they all share a deep cultural resonance that makes this anthology feel both epic and intimate.
The range of animation styles is just as diverse as the storytelling. Some episodes embrace hyper-stylised action sequences, while others lean into dreamlike, painterly aesthetics. Highlights include 'Moremi', a mesmerising retelling of a Yoruba legend with sci-fi flourishes, and 'Mukudzei', a Zimbabwean tale where a rebellious teen interacts with holographic ancestors in ways that are both poignant and playful.
Both Iwájú and Kizazi Moto mark a thrilling moment for Afrofuturist animation. These projects push back against the dominance of Western-centric sci-fi narratives, carving out space for African visions of the future – visions that are just as exhilarating, complex and imaginative as anything Hollywood has to offer.
Disney+
Explore the titles mentioned in this article and more on Disney+
*Subscription required. Conditions apply.
Explore Afrofuturism in The Future & Other Fictions
Exhibition | Thu 28 Nov 2024 – Sun 27 Apr 2025
Discover the people, costumes and artworks that shape tomorrow. See detailed costumes from Marvel Studios' Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Explore intricate sets, props and concept art from Cyberpunk 2077, Blade Runner 2049, The Creator, and more
Join our newsletter
Be the first to hear about upcoming exhibitions, films, events and special offers.