The neon lights of Lusaka flicker across the screen as four schoolgirls weave through traffic on motorbikes, their laughter echoing over the hum of the city. This opening sequence of Supa Team 4 is a whirlwind introduction to a world that feels both distinctly African and universally relatable—a rarity in animated series aimed at kids.

Created by Malenga Mulendema and co-produced by Triggerfish Animation Studios and Cake Entertainment, Supa Team 4 is Netflix‘s first original African animated series. Premiering on July 20, 2023, with a second season following on December 21 of the same year, it carries the weight of that distinction with swagger. The show follows four teenage girls—Komana (Zowa Ngira), Monde (Namisa Mdlalose), Temwe (Kimani Arthur), and Zee (Nancy Sekhokoane)—who balance the pressures of secondary school with their secret identities as superheroes, recruited by retired spy Mama K (Pamela Nomvete). The series thrives on its fresh perspective, offering a neo-futuristic take on Lusaka that’s both imaginative and grounded in real-world cultural touchpoints.

Visually, Supa Team 4 is a standout. The animation style, reminiscent of Spider-Verse and TMNT: Mutant Mayhem, brings a dynamic energy to the screen. The cityscape of Lusaka is rendered with intricate detail, blending modern architecture with futuristic elements. Skyscrapers tower over bustling markets, and neon signs flicker in languages that are both familiar and new. This attention to detail creates a backdrop that’s both familiar and fantastical, immersing viewers in a world that feels alive and vibrant.

The action sequences are fluid and exhilarating. Each character’s unique abilities—Komana’s high-tech bow, Monde’s baton that doubles as a shield, Temwe’s ribbon wand, and Zee’s futbol balls—add layers of creativity to the fights. One standout sequence sees the team battling a supervillain in the heart of the city, with each girl using her environment to her advantage. The choreography is tight, the pacing is relentless, and the stakes feel high.

The voice acting is another highlight. The cast delivers performances that are energetic and full of personality. Kimani Arthur as Temwe steals scenes with her excitable delinquent energy, delivering lines with a mischievous grin that’s impossible not to love. Nancy Sekhokoane brings a commanding presence as Zee, the athletic star of the futbol team, her voice exuding confidence and determination. Pamela Nomvete’s Mama K is a standout, exuding a mix of toughness and warmth that grounds the series. Her portrayal of the retired spy is nuanced, balancing a no-nonsense demeanor with moments of vulnerability.

However, Supa Team 4 isn’t without its flaws. The pacing can feel uneven at times, with some episodes struggling to balance character development with action. The humor, while often on point, occasionally veers into territory that might confuse younger viewers. Additionally, the show’s reliance on superhero tropes means that some plotlines feel predictable.

Where Supa Team 4 truly shines is in its originality. It’s a series that unapologetically centers African culture and perspectives, offering a refreshing alternative to the Western-dominated animation landscape. The show’s themes of friendship, responsibility, and heroism are universal, but the way they’re woven into an African context makes it feel fresh and vital. For instance, the character of Komana, who invents a carbon capture machine to help her father with his severe asthma, ties into real-world issues of environmental sustainability and health.

The series also stands out for its representation. From the diverse cast of voice actors to the richly drawn African setting, Supa Team 4 offers a mirror for young viewers who might not often see themselves represented in animated media. This is particularly important given that the show is aimed at kids, providing them with role models and stories that resonate with their experiences.

Comparatively, Supa Team 4 holds its own against other animated series in the superhero genre. While it lacks the polished sheen of Disney‘s offerings or the cinematic spectacle of Spider-Verse, it makes up for it with its unique cultural perspective and dynamic storytelling. The show’s blend of action, humor, and heart creates a formula that’s both entertaining and engaging.

That said, Supa Team 4 is not without its challenges. The series sometimes struggles to find the right balance between its various elements, leading to moments where the pacing feels off or the humor falls flat. Additionally, the show’s reliance on superhero tropes can make some plotlines feel predictable.

In the end, Supa Team 4 is a series that deserves attention. It’s a bold step forward for diversity in animation, offering a fresh perspective that’s both culturally rich and universally appealing.