Amazon Prime Video Adapts ‘LOL’ Format in Nigeria, Orders ‘Gangs of Lagos’ and Opens Local Currency Services
variety.comManori Ravindran International EditorAmazon Prime Video has ordered the Nigerian originals “Gangs of Lagos” and “LOL: Last One Laughing Naija,” and opened up local currency services for the platform in the country.Crime thriller “Gangs of Lagos,” which will launch on the platform later this year, is a high-stakes action-crime thriller that follows a group of friends who each have to navigate their own destiny, growing up on the bustling streets and neighbourhood of Isale Eko, Lagos.The show stars Tobi Bakre, Adesua Etomi-Wellington and Chiké. “Gangs of Lagos” is directed and produced by Jade Osiberu, produced by Kemi Lala Akindoju and co-produced by Akin Omotoso.Meanwhile, “LOL: Last One Laughing Naija” is a local adaptation of the wide-traveling Amazon original.
The unscripted series finds a group of comedians competing to be the “last one laughing.” The show is hosted by the comedian and entertainer Basketmouth, who will pit 10 famous Nigerian comedians against one another to see who will ultimately win by keeping a straight face. “LOL: Last One Laughing Naija” is filmed and produced in Nigeria by Livespot360.
It follows the success of the format, which has already launched in Japan, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, India, Canada, Germany, France, Italy and Spain.
The show will launch next year.Both local productions build on recent film deals, including an exclusive commissioning slate deal with Nemsia Films for three feature films, beginning with “Breath of Life,” launching next year.
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