Kings of Jo'Burg

Serving as South Africa’s thrilling addition to the global entertainment landscape, Kings of Jo’Burg is an original Netflix series from 2020. Produced by Ferguson Films, the series is curated by Shona Ferguson who has produced numerous successful South African hits. The series represents an in-depth foray into the challenging, exhilarating, and complex lives of the crime-ridden city of Johannesburg, hence the name Jo'burg.

The show follows the dramatic lives of the Masire brothers who rule the city of Johannesburg, demonstrating unrivaled influence and power in the South African criminal underworld. Simon, the elder of the two, played by the seasoned actor Shona Ferguson, is a character shrouded by both immense power and secrecy. The younger sibling, Mojalefa “Mo” Masire, played by award-winning actor Zolisa Xaluva, adds layers of intrigue to the plot, as viewers learn more about his journey as the story unfolds.

Throughout its magnificently penned storyline full of heart-thumping dramatic instances, the series takes viewers through a whirlwind of emotions set in the ruthless world where power is everything and loyalty is the ultimate weapon. Simon and Mo, while sitting at the helm of a powerful business empire, have to grapple with the criminal world that they have built while dealing with familial and cross-border conflicts and the price they have to pay for their dominance.

Amidst the blood and glamour, Kings of Jo'Burg leans heavily on themes of brotherhood, loyalty, family, and treachery that are woven into its slow-burning plot, eliciting deep-seated emotions and creating a sense of connection for viewers. Moreover, the tension-filled relationship between the brothers, threading the fine line between love and fear of betrayal, becomes one of the crowning elements that drive the narrative further.

The storyline transcends the mundane through the fascinating addition of supernatural elements. This blend of crime drama and mystic forces largely contributes to the unique flavor of the series. From mysterious premonitions to powerful ancestral spirits, the series ingeniously uses these elements to amplify the intensity of the events and stir an additional layer of excitement amongst its viewers.

The female characters in the series are not side-lined either, adding another layer of depth to the drama. Connie Ferguson’s character as the bold and manipulative wife of Simon is imperative in the narrative. She both comforts and fiercely protects her husband and family, illustrating the strength and resilience of women, which is quite a contrast to the predominantly masculine energy within the South African underworld the series portrays.

The beautiful cinematography of Kings of Jo'Burg paints a vivid picture of the contrast between the high life lived by Jo'Burg's powerful criminal element and the reality of life in the less glamorous parts of Johannesburg. The show transforms the city into a character in itself, reflected in the ebb and flow of power, transitioning from the hustle and bustle of the city markets to the opulent nightclubs and luxurious mansions of the crime lords.

Beyond its thematic depth and skillful storytelling, Kings of Jo'Burg also excels in its ensemble cast, making it a powerhouse of established South African acting talent. The able acting coupled with the intricate plot guarantees quality entertainment and hooks viewers right from the start.

With its multifaceted characters, rich visual style, suspenseful storyline, and unpredictable twists, Kings of Jo'Burg is an unmissable treat for crime drama enthusiasts. Its raw depiction of the underbelly of society coupled with the intricacies of familial ties offers a unique viewing experience. The series successfully reflects the harsh realities of crime-laden societies, resulting in a gritty storytelling masterpiece that stands tall amongst global viewership.

Running a total of six episodes, Kings of Jo'Burg makes for an intensely immersive watch, as it successfully marries the charm of local South African culture with universal crime drama themes, thereby appealing to audiences both within and outside South Africa. Whether you appreciate high-voltage drama, intense crime stories, mystical elements, or simply compelling narratives, this show promises a roller coaster ride filled with action, suspense, and emotion.