The buzz and anticipation for renowned filmmaker and scholar Dr Zippy Okoth’s new film, Otis Janam, culminated in a highly euphoric and star-studded premiere event at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre on the sidelines of the Kalasha International Film and TV Market and Festival.
The grandeur, glam, and generosity of the fans of Luo film in Kenya was palpable, attracting a full house from key industry stakeholders, international dignitaries, celebrities, filmmakers, artists, friends, and family. The hearty and light film shares the story of a lazy fisherman, Janam, played by Nick Kwach, who wins a boat racing competition, and the heart of a wealthy man’s daughter, Api, played by Sarah Masese.
Despite the success, Janam finds himself at loggerheads with his newly-wedded wife when she decides to take him on in a boat race that encourages women to competitively engage in the sport as well, something he does not take with a pinch of salt. Shot on location in the beautiful Rusinga Island, which lies in the eastern part of Lake Victoria, the picturesque film brings to life cultural insight into the world of gender equality and women empowerment citing critical economic challenges faced by women once they tie the knot and start a family. The film also celebrates the role of fathers and the impact they have in a child’s life, as well as navigating the
complexities and strengths of brotherhood in Kenya’s growing society.
Otis Janam is part of 22 other local stories being supported by the Kenya Film Commission as part of their mandate to position Kenya as a center of excellence in film production. Having created an employment opportunity for over 250 people working on the project, the film is set to continue screening across various locations over the next couple of weeks including key communities, further encouraging the appreciation of Kenya’s local content.
The premiere came to a close with a pulsating music performance from Iddi Achieng whose music also features in the film together with sounds from Winyo and, Okello Max, singing, Village Champion, the soundtrack to the film.
Watch Otis Janam now on My Movies Africa
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