Magic Carpet studio is bringing to life Cyprian Ekwensi‘s “The Passport of Mallam Ilia” in its soon-to-be-released feature-length animation.
Magic Carpet Studios, an animation and games studio in Lagos, is determined to disrupt the industry. The studio is currently working on its first 2D animation feature film – an adaptation of the African literature classic – “The Passport of Mallam Ilia” written by Cyprian Ekwensi and published in 1960.
The 19th-century story is set in the ancient city of Kano, with the major themes being love, conquest, betrayal, and revenge. It shows the beauty of colonial Northern Nigerian people and culture, long before the modern day Nigeria
It follows Mallam Ilia quest for vengeance as he chases down the villain Usman throughout the plot, who is responsible for the murder of his beloved wife, Zara.
The film stars the multi-talented singer, Di’ja, who is currently signed to Mavin Records, and veteran actor and former broadcaster, Sadiq Daba, who stared in the film “October 1” as “Inspector Waziri.
The making of the film was preceded by a physical visit to the city of Kano, where locals were interviewed, and team members exchanged ideas and gained insight into the history of the northern Nigerian city, which has been the seat of the emirate for centuries.
Magic Carpet is also responsible for other projects which includes “Meet The Igwes”, an animated online series about a middle-class Igbo family in the hustle and bustle of Lagos. “The Passport of Mallam Ilia” is its first full-length feature film, and is expected to be released soon.
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