Vonti Talks with Filmmakers

Season 2, Episode 8 pt. 2 James M. Russell is building Africa's Largest Film Studio


Listen Later

Welcome Back! Here is Part 2 of our discussion with Media Innovator James M. Russell who is laser focused on upgrading African TV and Film. He is a seasoned film and TV producer, writer, and entrepreneur, driving innovative projects that captivate global audiences. As the Managing Partner of Desert Dunes Film Studios in Namibia, James is building Africa’s largest motion picture studio, set to launch in January 2026. This groundbreaking facility will include state-of-the-art sound stages, post-production and animation studios, and community-focused spaces like classrooms, a daycare, and a credit union. He recently optioned Blood Has a Voice by forensic pathologist Hestelle van Staden, adding to his growing slate of impactful stories.

Through MANKS Motion Picture Studios Inc., James is developing a dynamic range of films, including the Amsterdam-set thriller Happy Father’s Day, the magical drama The Reluctant Witch, and the family comedy Nurse Christy Saves Christmas. With multiple award-winning scripts and projects celebrated at festivals like Cannes and Toronto, James continues to craft compelling narratives while revolutionizing the African film industry.

#podcastrecommendation #podcaststudio #VontiTalksWithFilmmakers #blackpeople #canada #nollywood #filmmaking #cinematography #screenwriter #hollywoodstories #indiefilm #tvproduction #filmproducer #shortsviral #spotifypodcast #applepodcasts #podcastvideo #listennow #subscribenow #newepisode #behindthescenes #trendingnow #viralcontent #podcastclips #viralpodcast #movies #trailers #podcast #podcastlife #podcastshow #podcasting #podcasthost #podcastepisode #podcastcommunity #podcaster #filmmaker #televison #Africa

...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

Vonti Talks with FilmmakersBy Vonti McRae