Simon Kinberg, known for his work as a writer on several X-Men movies, credits “X-Men: Days of Future Past” as a trailblazer in the realm of multiverse films.

This 2014 film, directed by Bryan Singer, has gained increasing recognition in recent years, especially in light of the less successful sequels in the franchise.

The story is set in the 1970s, where mutants, led by Charles Xavier (James McAvoy) and Magneto (Michael Fassbender), must unite to prevent a future war.

In 2023, Sentinels created by Trask Industries hunt and imprison mutants in extermination camps, leading to a complex narrative that spans different timelines.

The film brought together stars from the original X-Men trilogy and the prequel saga, setting a precedent for the integration of multiverse concepts in comic book adaptations.

Kinberg believes that “X-Men: Days of Future Past” laid the groundwork for future multiverse storytelling, including in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

In an interview with Polygon, Kinberg noted that while the film doesn’t delve into high science fiction elements, it explores the science fiction trope of time travel, which expanded the possibilities of storytelling beyond linear Earth-based narratives.

The competition for dominance in the African streaming market is heating up, with Netflix leading the way with an estimated 7.4 million subscribers, followed by Showmax (4.4 million subscribers) and Amazon Prime Video (3.14 million viewers). Digital TV Research predicts that by 2029, Africa will see an additional 10 million subscribers, pushing video-on-demand subscriptions to 18 million.

Netflix and Showmax are the key players in this evolving landscape. Netflix is expected to almost double its subscriber base, while Showmax aims to more than triple its numbers, primarily due to a strong focus on rich local content, sports rights, and the addition of content from major studios.

Despite this growth, SVOD penetration in Africa is projected to remain relatively low, with only 7.7% of TV households subscribing to at least one service by 2029.

MultiChoice, the parent company of Showmax, has launched DStv Stream, an enhanced app aimed at improving the viewing experience, particularly for sports enthusiasts, by offering features like localized sports commentary and dedicated sports pages.

Netflix, in addition to reducing subscription fees in some African countries, is actively investing in local content development to attract more subscribers. MultiChoice has also emphasized local content, with 50% of its general entertainment spending allocated to local productions, achieving a library of over 76,000 hours and a 9% annual production increase.

Amazon Prime Video is expanding its library of local originals and acquisitions, with a focus on South Africa and Nigeria. They’ve hired Gideon Khobane, a former MultiChoice executive, to oversee growth in these areas, and have already premiered local comedy and drama originals, along with local acquisitions.

Overall, the African streaming market is growing, and competition among these major players is intensifying as they invest in local content, tap into talent, and enhance the viewer experience.

Netflix has unveiled its latest content lineup during the MIP Africa TV conference.

The offerings include the fourth season of “Blood & Water,” a new romantic comedy called “Soweto Love Story,” and several exciting partnerships with South African filmmakers and production companies.

These collaborations aim to showcase unique South African storytelling to Netflix’s vast global audience. The upcoming content includes series like “Miseducation” and “YOH’ Christmas,” the return of “Blood & Water” for its fourth season, and a mystery drama series called “Savage Beauty.”

Additionally, Netflix will continue the reality series “Young, Famous & African” and release a new installment in the Kandasamys film franchise titled “Kandasamys: The Baby.” There’s also an adaptation of Deon Meyer’s novel “Heart of the Hunter,” a spy thriller, and the romantic comedy “Soweto Love Story.”

Netflix is committed to investing in South Africa’s creative industry and showcasing its exceptional talent to a global audience.