Following the global sensation of Sue Nyathi’s novel-turned-Netflix series, ‘The Polygamist,’ which impressively reached number two on Netflix’s global non-English chart and charted in the top 10 in 63 countries, a vibrant discussion has erupted across social media in Zimbabwe. Citizens are passionately advocating for the adaptation of more of the country’s rich literary heritage into film and television productions.
The success of ‘The Polygamist’ has highlighted the untapped potential within Zimbabwe’s literary scene, sparking a renewed interest in classic novels by esteemed authors such as Yvonne Vera, Tsitsi Dangarembga, Chenjerai Hove, and Ndabaningi Sithole.
However, industry players remain cautious, pointing to significant financial and technical hurdles that have historically challenged African filmmakers. Ben Mahaka, a leading Zimbabwean filmmaker, noted the absence of a robust infrastructure to support the transition from books to screen, including a lack of well-funded local production companies and a functioning intellectual property rights framework. This situation often leaves African authors without adequate representation to negotiate adaptation rights at international film and TV markets.
Key Players Involved
- Sue Nyathi: Zimbabwean author whose novel ‘The Polygamist’ became a global Netflix hit.
- Stained Glass Productions: South African producers who approached Nyathi in 2022 to adapt her novel.
- Ben Mahaka: Prominent Zimbabwean filmmaker highlighting the challenges in adapting local literature.
Event Timeline
- 2012: Sue Nyathi’s novel ‘The Polygamist’ is independently published.
- 2022: Stained Glass Productions initiates discussions with Nyathi for a screen adaptation.
- Recently: ‘The Polygamist’ achieves global success on Netflix, leading to calls for more Zimbabwean adaptations.
