The first South African Netflix original series, Shadow, is rocking local and international audiences.
It is gritty, edgy and unapologetically South African.
A young girl is horribly slain. Johannesburg detective and former task force specialist, Shadrach “Shadow” Khumalo, quits his job to become a “fixer” for people who, like him, have been failed by the criminal justice system.
Shadow is played by award-winning South African actor Pallance Dladla who shot to fame as the runner-up of SABC 1’s season 2 of Class Act.
Dladla is best known for his role as Duke on Mzansi Magic’s Is’thunzi.
The eight-part series takes viewers on an emotional journey. Shadow has been affected by a personal trauma in his life and as such, he wants to do good to others.
Director Gareth Crocker describes Shadow as a “modern-day Robin Hood with a bit of a dark side”.
“Because of the trauma he has faced, he seeks vengeance which has made him bitter, making it difficult for him to move on from his past,” said Crocker.
The local production was filmed in Johannesburg with local actors and local content.
The series explores the locations of Hartbeespoort Dam, Dinokeng Big 5 Game Reserve and the Kevin Richardson Lion Sanctuary.
“While set and grounded in Africa, Shadow has an international feel and deals with issues and challenges facing most people around the world. Shadow has been created to appeal to a wide international audience, beyond merely Africa and the diaspora.” said Crocker. It is only fitting for a heartfelt drama-thriller to have a love interest for the protagonist.
eSwatini actress, model and television presenter Amanda du Pont plays Ashley, Shadow’s kryptonite.
Ashley is a fearless, confident, reliable and strong woman who tackles all challenges thrown her way, head on.
Ashley helps keep Shadow centred when he becomes engulfed in his “duties”.
The series has received great reviews on social media from some local and international viewers. @Shad_Spikes on twitter said, “Shadow on Netflix is really good. I suggest y'all get hip.”
@I_am_Nashdee said, “I must honestly say I was a bit sceptical at first, but four minutes into watching #Shadow on Netflix, I was in awe. You guys did the things with that series. It’s world class. Thank you @PallanceD @AmandaDupont and the rest of the cast and crew. Amazing work there.”
@Amouranaa tweeted, “Wow I didn’t know it was 4 in the morning, my eyes are glued onto this series on Netflix called Shadow. It’s dope.”
@MatNetflixFan echoed the above sentiments by saying: “I just discovered Shadow on @netflix I’m about half way through it I’ve been loving it so far. It’s about a vigilante who can’t feel pain, what’ not to like? I can’t wait for season two.” Shadow was launched on March 8 and is available on Netflix globally...