Q: What inspired the story behind your short film?
A: We are among the millions of Kenyan children who suffered under a violent education system that erased our languages, nuances, and wild spirits. Bruce Koech embodies our struggles with growing up in such a harsh world. How do you hold on to your true self when you grew up and live in a world that seeks to erase it?
Q: Can you discuss any unique challenges you faced during production?
A: Casting the character of Koech was challenging. It was difficult to find a child who embodied the character and embraced the playfulness of the film without fearing the gaze of the camera.
Q: How did you approach character development within the limited runtime of a short film?
A: We see the short film more like poetry, with little time to make major character changes. We approached it as sharing a moment in the boy’s life rather than taking him on an entire journey with a character arc. We feel this “less is more” principle allows for better contemplation and reflection of the film’s questions.
Q: What message or emotion do you hope the audience takes away from your film?
A: The film is an invitation to reflect on those parts of ourselves that we lost when growing up. We hope to create some sort of nostalgia, allowing the audience to go back in time and experience the joy of play and childhood, albeit for a moment.
Q: How do you see your short film fitting into your broader body of work or future projects?
A: We believe this is an important story to expand not only for larger audiences in our region but also outside. We see it as a way of understanding the complexities of our existence and our place in the universe. For us, this short film is the beginning, a spark to ignite more conversations on this struggle for self in a violent world. We owe it to ourselves. We deserve better. It is a topic we’re hoping to expand into a feature film.
Q: If you could cast any actor, living or dead, in your next project, who would it be and why?
A: Samuel L. Jackson. His presence is felt in almost every role he plays.
Q: What’s the most unexpected thing that happened on set?
A: The tenacity of the main character. It was his first time acting, and he fully embraced the role, going above and beyond what was requested of him. We had concerns about what could go wrong, especially since he was a child actor, but it was amazing to see such a seamless flow with him.
Q: If you could have a superpower to help you with filmmaking, what would it be and how would you use it?
A: Telepathy on an emotional level—the ability to perceive and connect deeply with people’s emotions and lives. I would use it to craft films full of tenderness, love, and care, capturing the complexities of the human experience.
Q: Why are festivals like the FAME Shorts Film Festival so important?
A: Festivals like the FAME Shorts Film Festival are essential for African filmmakers. They amplify diverse African narratives, empower independent creators, and foster a vibrant filmmaking community through networking and professional development opportunities.
