UPDATE: Grammy-nominated artist Masego has officially signed on to compose the score for the highly anticipated anime film Mfinda, produced by N LITE. This ground-breaking collaboration marks Masego as the first Black composer to score an anime theatrical film, highlighting a significant milestone in the industry.
The announcement comes as Mfinda enters pre-production, with the film backed by Oscar-winning producers from GKIDS and JuVee Productions, co-founded by Viola Davis and Julius Tennon. Notably, NBA star Joel Embiid and multifaceted artist Jaden Smith, who also lends his voice to the project, serve as executive producers.
Set in a mystical realm, Mfinda follows the journey of a 13-year-old Congolese girl as she is transported to a primordial forest filled with spirits, gods, and ancestors. The film explores themes of friendship and resilience during a conflict between humans and nature spirits. Masego, known for his unique blend of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop dubbed “TrapHouseJazz,” is expected to deliver a score that intertwines music and storytelling, crafting a sound that resonates deeply with audiences.
Masego expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “Black anime is my internal world, so when Christiano called me to be a part of this, there was nothing to think about: I’m in.” He emphasized the personal connection he feels to the genre, noting that many of his tattoos are inspired by anime. His dedication to creating a memorable score that reflects cultural pride is palpable.
Collaborating closely with Ozie Cargile, musical director at N LITE and a recognized composer, they aim to create a timeless score that captures the essence of the film’s narrative. Cargile, a 2019 Sundance Fellow, adds his expertise to the project, having previously worked on notable projects such as the animated short Strawberry Bootlaces.
In a statement, director Christiano Terry shared his admiration for Masego, saying, “Masego is one of my favorite artists of all time, and it is an honor to welcome him as composer on Mfinda. We hope for the audience to experience music in Mfinda’s score that they’ll never forget.”
As Mfinda progresses towards production, industry insiders and fans alike eagerly await this unprecedented fusion of music and animation. With Masego’s visionary approach, the film promises to redefine the landscape of anime and elevate the voices of Black creators in the genre.
Stay tuned for more updates as Mfinda develops, and prepare for a cinematic experience that celebrates culture, artistry, and the power of storytelling.