Showmax has unveiled the official trailer and poster for its highly anticipated drama series, “Princess on A Hill.” Set to premiere on November 7, 2024, this groundbreaking production promises to redefine African storytelling and further cement Showmax’s position as a powerhouse in original content creation.
The release of the trailer has sparked a frenzy of excitement across social media platforms, with fans and critics alike praising the stunning visuals, compelling narrative, and star-studded cast. “Princess on A Hill” is poised to be Showmax’s most ambitious project to date, blending elements of historical drama, political intrigue, and contemporary African issues into a tapestry of storytelling that spans generations.
Set against the backdrop of a fictional West African kingdom, “Princess on A Hill” tells the story of Princess Amina, a young royal who finds herself thrust into a web of palace politics, ancient traditions, and modern challenges as she navigates her destiny to become the first female ruler of her nation. The series promises to explore themes of power, identity, and the clash between tradition and progress in a rapidly changing Africa.
The two-minute trailer opens with breathtaking aerial shots of a lush, mountainous landscape, gradually zooming in on a magnificent hilltop palace. The voice of the lead actress, rising star Adesua Etomi-Wellington, narrates: “In a land where tradition is law and change is treason, one woman dares to dream of a different future.” What follows is a montage of visually stunning scenes: opulent royal ceremonies, intense political confrontations, and intimate moments of personal struggle, all set to a pulsating soundtrack that blends traditional African instruments with modern orchestral arrangements.
Yolisa Phahle, CEO of Showmax, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: “With ‘Princess on A Hill,’ we’re not just creating a TV series; we’re crafting an experience that showcases the very best of African creativity and storytelling. This project represents our commitment to producing world-class content that can compete on the global stage while remaining authentically African.
The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring some of the continent’s most talented actors. Alongside Etomi-Wellington in the lead role, the show stars veteran actor Olu Jacobs as the aging king, Genevieve Nnaji as the cunning queen mother, and John Boyega in a guest role as a charismatic foreign diplomat. The inclusion of Boyega, fresh off his success in Hollywood blockbusters, signals Showmax’s ambition to create content with international appeal.
Director Kemi Adetiba, known for her work on “King of Boys,” brings her distinctive visual style and narrative prowess to the project. In a press statement, Adetiba shared her vision for the series: “We’re telling a story that is both timeless and urgently relevant. Princess on A Hill’ is about the weight of legacy, the courage to challenge the status quo, and the power of one individual to inspire change. It’s a love letter to Africa’s rich history and a bold look at its future.
The production values on display in the trailer have already drawn comparisons to high-budget international series. Cinematographer Yinka Edward, whose work on the project is already generating Oscar buzz, spoke about the visual approach: “We wanted to create a world that feels both familiar and fantastical. Every frame is designed to transport viewers into this rich, complex African kingdom.”
Industry analysts are already predicting that “Princess on A Hill” could be a game-changer for African content on the global stage. Media consultant Chude Jideonwo commented, “What Showmax is doing with this series is revolutionary. They’re not just creating content for a local audience; they’re saying that African stories, told with this level of quality and investment, can and should be part of the global conversation.”
The series has been in production for over two years, with filming taking place across multiple locations in Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa. The scale of the production has provided employment opportunities for hundreds of African creatives and technicians, furthering Showmax’s commitment to developing the continent’s film industry.
Costume designer Deola Sagoe, whose work features prominently in the trailer, spoke about the challenge and excitement of creating the show’s distinctive look: “We’ve drawn inspiration from various African cultures to create a world that feels both authentic and fantastical. Each costume tells a story, reflecting the character’s status, personality, and journey.”
The release of the poster, which accompanies the trailer, has also generated significant buzz. The striking image features Etomi-Wellington as Princess Amina, resplendent in regal attire, standing atop a hill overlooking her kingdom. The tagline, “To rule is to rise,” encapsulates the series’ themes of ambition, duty, and personal growth.
Social media reaction to the trailer and poster has been overwhelmingly positive, with the hashtag #PrincessOnAHill trending across multiple platforms within hours of the release. Fans have been particularly enthusiastic about the representation of strong, complex African women in positions of power, with many expressing hope that the series will challenge stereotypes and inspire a new generation of leaders.
Showmax’s investment in “Princess on A Hill” is part of a broader strategy to compete with international streaming giants by offering high-quality, locally relevant content. The company has been steadily increasing its portfolio of original African productions, but this series represents its most significant gambit yet.
The November 7 premiere date strategically positions the show for the critical end-of-year awards season, with Showmax clearly setting its sights on international recognition. There are already whispers of potential Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, which would be a first for an African streaming series.
As anticipation builds towards the premiere, Showmax has announced an extensive marketing campaign that will include virtual reality experiences, allowing fans to explore the world of “Princess on A Hill” before the series debuts. Additionally, a series of public screenings are planned in major African cities, turning the premiere into a continent-wide cultural event.
The success of “Princess on A Hill” could have far-reaching implications for the African entertainment industry. A strong performance could attract further investment in African content, open doors for local talent on the international stage, and challenge global perceptions of what African television can be.
As the November 7 premiere approaches, all eyes will be on Showmax and “Princess on A Hill.” With its blend of cultural richness, universal themes, and high production values, the series stands poised to usher in a new era of African storytelling—one where the continent’s narratives are not just locally appreciated but globally celebrated.
In the words of lead actress Adesua Etomi-Wellington, “This is more than just a TV show. It’s a statement about who we are and what we can achieve. We’re inviting the world to see Africa as we see it: complex, beautiful, and filled with stories that deserve to be told.”
As the trailer concludes with a powerful shot of Princess Amina ascending the steps to her throne, one thing becomes clear: with “Princess on A Hill,” Showmax is not just aiming for viewership; it’s gunning for a place in television history.
