Deputy Minister Zoku Godlimpi of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) recently toured Cape Town Film Studios, the heart of Netflix’s One Piece Season 2 production. The visit highlighted South Africa’s rising stature in the global film industry, showcasing innovative sustainability efforts and local talent.
Sustainability at the Forefront
A standout feature of the One Piece set is its independence from the national electricity grid, thanks to over 250 solar panels powering the production. The Deputy Minister commended these efforts, emphasising the government’s commitment to supporting the creative industry. He remarked:
“Today I visited Netflix South Africa and the production set for One Piece, serviced by Film Afrika Entertainment. We’re committed as government to supporting the creative industry as a key pillar of our industrial economy to position it as a global hub for film.”
Behind-the-Scenes Tour
During the visit, Godlimpi was given an exclusive tour of the sprawling set, witnessing firsthand the intricate craftsmanship of local technicians. He explored the prosthetics and lighting departments and observed the cast in action. His tour underscored the vital role South African creatives play in this ambitious global series.
Economic and Social Impact
Netflix’s investment in One Piece is already yielding substantial benefits for South Africa’s economy. Season 1 injected approximately R897 million into the local economy, benefiting 625 service providers—many of which are small businesses. The production also created 1,000 full-time equivalent jobs, with 27% filled by women.
In addition, the Academy of Creative Excellence (ACE) mentorship programme, launched in partnership with the South African Film Academy, provided training for 32 young creatives and technicians. This initiative offered invaluable hands-on experience in a world-class production environment, further strengthening the local talent pool.
A Global Success Story
Season 1 of One Piece, based on Eiichiro Oda’s iconic manga, was a global hit, making Netflix’s Top 10 in 93 countries. It was praised for its engaging storytelling and authentic adaptation, with South African talent playing a crucial role. More than 50 South African cast members brought unique flair to the series, proving the country’s rich acting potential.
Cementing South Africa’s Film Industry Reputation
Cape Town Film Studios continues to attract major international productions, reinforcing South Africa’s reputation as a prime filming destination. With skilled professionals, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong government support, the country is becoming a beacon for global filmmaking.
Deputy Minister Godlimpi’s visit not only celebrated the success of One Piece but also reaffirmed the government’s dedication to nurturing the creative sector. Initiatives like these stimulate the economy, create sustainable job opportunities, and position South Africa as a key player in the global film industry.
Conclusion
As production for Season 2 of One Piece gains momentum, the collaboration between Netflix, Film Afrika Entertainment, and South African talent exemplifies the potential of the local creative industry. For South Africans, this milestone is a reminder that the pursuit of creative excellence can yield economic treasure and global recognition.
