Meta-owned messaging app WhatsApp is entering the film industry. WhatsApp announced its first original short film, “Naija Odyssey,” earlier this week, which tells the story of NBA player Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was born in Athens, Greece, to Nigerian parents.
On September 21, 2022, “Naija Odyssey” will debut on Prime Video. The short film represents WhatsApp’s foray into entertainment, which is an unusual move for a social messaging app. Unlike Apple’s original content, however, “Naija Odyssey” appears to be a way to promote the brand, as Antetokounmpo recently signed an endorsement deal with WhatsApp, another first for the app. “‘Naija Odyssey’ is a story that reinforces how WhatsApp helps us embrace our multifaceted lives,” Vivian Odior, WhatsApp’s global head of marketing, told Variety. WhatsApp is there to help you navigate relationships, identity, and even adversity, allowing you to embrace all sides of yourself by connecting you to those who matter most.”
