This archive report was first published on 12 October 2019.
October 12, 2019, marked a significant milestone for Kenya's film industry, as a new generation of filmmakers began to make their mark. According to EGARA KABAJI, a researcher and professor of literary communication at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, these young filmmakers are driving the industry forward with their creativity and innovative spirit.
With the rise of the millennials, Kenyan artists have finally seized the opportunities in the film industry, leaving behind the days when their stories were solely told by Nigerian filmmakers. The millennials, aged 35 and below, are known for their innovative, adventurous, and creative approach to filmmaking, which has led to a surge in the production of Kenyan films.
One of the rising stars in the industry is Sarah Hassan, known for her role in the popular series 'Tahidi High' and her hit film 'Plan B' (2019). Another notable figure is Pascal Tokodi, who has gained recognition for his work in the series 'Selina' and the film 'Grove Theory'. These young filmmakers are not only producing high-quality content but also telling stories that reflect the Kenyan experience.
The themes of the films being produced are diverse and varied, ranging from the impact of the Western world on Kenyan thought processes to love lives and relationships in a world caught between modernity and African traditional values. These films are offering the modern Kenyan an alternative way of looking at things, other than the view provided by Hollywood or Bollywood.
As EGARA KABAJI notes, these films are also opening up space for celebrating the diversity of Kenyan cultures, providing unsung cultural heroes and heroines, and familiar imaginary worlds. The films are carrying the pulse and rhythm of Kenya, painting a holistic picture of the country's experiences, including the neglect and betrayal of deprived spaces.
However, some critics argue that the films provide a window through which we see the anxieties and dreams of the African petty bourgeoisie who dwell in urban centers and jump on anything foreign to prove their sophistication. Nevertheless, the films are a powerful dramatization of the problems of contemporary society, useful for any youngster.
As EGARA KABAJI concludes, the future of Kenya's film industry is guaranteed, considering the opportunities provided by the digital platform. It is now time for responsible agencies to support the film-making and the entire creative industry to produce wealth.
