2 January 2020
Tyrant S1-3
While Tyrant is almost seven years old, it’s worth the watch as dictators continue to fall to this day. It’s a story of hope despite the war and villainy at the centre as Bassam Al-Fayeed (Adam Rayner) returns to the fictional Middle East country of Abuddin and tries to undo the reign of terror led by his family for decades.
The landscape is pretty – it was shot in Israel and Morocco, with the palace being CGI. What stands out is the authenticity onscreen – from reluctant hero Bassam, to his evil but oddly loveable tyrant brother Jamal (Ashraf Barhom), whose cruelty and dark humour was based on Iraq dictator Saddam Hussein’s son Uday.
Tim Goodman from thehollywoodreporter.com is clear about the starting point: “It’s strong and entertaining but not immediately a knockout. The first episode ends in a place that will make viewers want to tune in to see where it goes. And where Tyrant goes will be crucial. It’s certainly provocative and complex, given its ambition and scope, not to mention the foreign location and politically-charged backdrop for the Godfather-style premise.”
Original African stories by local talent

The Mommy Club NBO
The Mommy Club NBO is the fifth instalment of the record-breaking Mommy Club franchise. Stream from 30 May on Showmax, with new episodes every Friday.

Empini S1-2
Empini is a high-stakes, action-packed drama set in the ruthless, corrupt world of private security. Season 2 is now streaming, with new episodes every Tuesday.

Youngins S1-2
Stream Tshedza Pictures’s first teen drama, Showmax Original Youngins. S1 and S2 are ready to binge.

The Real Housewives of Durban Seasons 1-5
Our eThekwini queens are back with a brand-new season. Stream Season 5 now, with new episodes every Friday.

Unfollowed S1-2
Unfollowed examines cancel culture in social media through real-life stories of South African celebs. Stream S1-2 now on Showmax.

The Mommy Club S1-3
The Mommy Club sees glamorous Jozi momfluencers navigating the the cutthroat world of “it” moms. All episodes, including both reunion episodes, are streaming on Showmax.

Adulting S1-3
Four best friends go through the hoops of life, love and everything else. Binge-watch Adulting S1-3 now on Showmax.

The Chocolate Empire S1
The Chocolate Empire follows JB Mauzo, who was recently released from prison, as he rebuilds his life. All the episodes are ready to binge on Showmax.
The Mommy Club NBO, coming soon
The Chocolate Empire, now streaming
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