Iyanu draws strength from echoes of Princess Mononoke and Avatar: The Last Airbender—not as imitations, but in its balance of adventure, character growth, and cultural depth. Whether Roye Okupe’s graphic novels carry the same energy remains to be seen, but the adaptation compels me to find out.
When that happens, the scenes that should showcase ceremonial rites or folklore fade into the background. In what’s more prominent are the bold neon skylines and high technology. Even the costumes, while bold, lean toward sci-fi glamour rather than authentic tradition. Although it shares Yoruba roots with Iyanu, its futuristic framing dulls the impact of those cultural beats.
Both works aim to honour West African heritage but take opposite paths. Iwájú imagines tradition’s place in a modern metropolis, while Iyanu draws power from the past, placing cultural identity at the heart of its world. That contrast is why Iyanu leaves such a mark. Premiering quietly on Cartoon Network months ago, it might have slipped past without the right audience push. Like many under-promoted animated gems, it rewards viewers who actively seek out genre and theme.
Ten episodes in, the series has built a sturdy foundation. It follows a young girl discovering her heritage and stepping into a daunting destiny. Like Aang in Avatar, she resists her role as a unifier. The fractured alliances of West African tribes, rife with mistrust, make her journey perilous. With help from friends Biyi and Toye, she braves political intrigue and treacherous jungles where danger lurks at every turn.
Iyanu weaves Yoruba traditions deeply into its story. Ceremonial trials test the heroine’s courage (played by Sarah Johnson), elders pass down myths by firelight, and detailed beadwork and textiles showcase centuries-old artistry. These aren’t mere background touches—they shape the stakes and the soul of the narrative.
The animation channels The Last Airbender’s fluidity and expression but maintains a unique voice through bold colours, textured settings, and Yoruba-inspired designs. This authenticity and energy elevates Iyanu beyond a typical fantasy.
With two films slated for release over the next year, the Iyanu universe is poised to grow. During San Deigo Comic Con, the future was mapped out for fans: the prequel film Iyanu: The Age of Wonders—out Aug 30 on Cartoon Network and HBO Max the next day along with sneak peeks from Season 2. No info was offered regarding the second film.
The Disney series, meanwhile, will not. The producers planned for a standalone release. That’s a good thing, as it avoids competition or confusion down the road. And with Iyanu holding the potential to become a defining piece of African animation, I can’t wait to see it unfold. Iyanu isn’t just a show—it’s a cultural celebration that deserves a place on every animation fan’s watchlist. Dive in now and experience a story where heritage and heroism come alive like never before.
Iyanu Trailer
Iwájú Trailer
