The film Kikuyu Land, directed by journalist Bea Wangondu and cinematographer Andrew Brown, will screen at the NBO Film Festival in Nairobi from October 15 to 25. The film had previously made its debut at Sundance in January. During the festival run, Kikuyu Land will be screened at Prestige cinemas and Kaloleni Social Hall. The film's storyline revolves around a land dispute in Kenya involving local communities, county authorities, and a multinational corporation.
According to Wangondu, the story is rooted in memory and bolstered by her own investigation into the matter. She grew up hearing stories in her Kikuyu community about land that was taken and promises that were broken. The film aims to uncover things that weren’t said, peeling back layers of history that continue to shape present-day land disputes. Wangondu's inquiry into the dispute leads beyond official records and courtrooms, drawing on her own family narratives and silences passed down across generations.
The NBO Film Festival's seventh edition is built around the theme "Cinema for Us." The festival aims to promote African cinema, not only for global audiences but also for African viewers at home. The organisers believe that African cinema should be experienced by African audiences collectively. Kikuyu Land is an apt film to join the festival's catalogue, given its relevance to the theme.
The film festival will also feature screenings at Unseen Nairobi after its initial run at the festival. This will provide audiences with another opportunity to watch Kikuyu Land. The film has garnered attention for its unique storytelling and historical context. Its inclusion in the festival's lineup is expected to generate interest among film enthusiasts.
Wangondu's background as a journalist has equipped her with the skills to investigate and narrate the complex land dispute. Her personal connection to the story adds depth to the film's narrative. The collaboration with cinematographer Andrew Brown has resulted in a visually engaging film that explores the complexities of land ownership in Kenya.
The NBO Film Festival has become a significant event in the Kenyan film industry, showcasing a range of films and promoting African cinema. The festival's focus on "Cinema for Us" highlights the importance of African stories for African audiences. Kikuyu Land's debut at the festival is expected to contribute to the ongoing conversation about land disputes and their impact on communities.
The film's storyline and themes are expected to resonate with audiences, sparking discussions and reflections on the issues presented. The NBO Film Festival provides a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and engage with audiences. Kikuyu Land's inclusion in the festival's lineup is a testament to the film's relevance and importance in contemporary Kenyan cinema.
Key points
- The film Kikuyu Land will make its home debut at the NBO Film Festival in Nairobi from October 15 to 25.
- The film explores a land dispute in Kenya involving local communities, county authorities, and a multinational corporation.
- The NBO Film Festival's seventh edition is built around the theme "Cinema for Us," promoting African cinema for African audiences.
