'Blood and Water' director Nosipho Dumisa says she sought to 'challenge stereotypes' with series' pan sexual character

Although 'Blood and Water' features elitist teens trudging through their imaginary universe amid large to small scale conflicts, its story is unequivocally created on the premises of identity and unbiased representation.

Nosipho Dumisa talks creating statement making characters who challenge stereotypes in her Netflix African original series, 'Blood and Water'.

It is one of the reasons the character Chris played by Arno Greef, has managed to oftentimes steal the spotlight among the series' commentators.

For Nigerians, living in Nigeria, the reception of 'Blood and Water' especially to Chris, a teenager who discovers his sexual orientation as the season develops, varied based on how embracing one's sexuality is perceived within these shores. We might have to admit that an inclusive society might not be in close sight.

Pulse recently caught up with the series' director, Nosipho Dumisa and top on our list of questions was why Chris?

"Whenever I sit down to tell any story, and definitely it wasn't just me as it was a team effort, representation really matters to us", Dumisa said. "I think representation is important for the world and specifically, giving young adults space. Kids are all just trying to find themselves and the overriding theme in 'Blood and Water' is Identity.

As a film maker, Nosipho Dumisa has proven that the business for her is about telling stories that not just impact the world but also drives matters of social relevance. Her multiple award winning thriller, 'Nommer 37' not only won the hearts of local audience, it became a driving force in the international space.

Understandably, cultural diversity in Africa will always be a point to note when it comes to viewers' perception of African content and the 32-year-old filmmaker agrees even while pointing out how universally relatable the message of 'Blood and Water' is.

"it was important for us to tell different stories without kind of placing any judgment on anyone and without trying to preach to anyone about anything while portraying these kids as authentically as possible".

On local reaction to the new series, Dumisa revealed how she constantly receives messages of people sharing glowy reviews.

'Blood and Water' is currently streaming on Netflix since its May 20 premiere.