Daudi Anguka, an award-winning Kenyan filmmaker and CEO of AR Films, has received the honor of having his film “Mvera” selected to represent Kenya in the International Best Feature Film category for the 96th Academy Awards.
The film, presented in English and Swahili, sheds light on corrupt leadership causing poverty in a community in Mombasa.
The Kenya Oscars Selection committee expressed confidence in the quality of submissions this year.
Chairperson Krysteen Savane noted a marked improvement in storytelling and acting based on the received submissions.
This year, the committee reviewed three submissions: “Shimoni” by Wangechi Ngugi, “Unheard Voices” by William Okoth, and “Mvera” by AR Films Production Limited.
Directed and written by Anguka, “Mvera” was entirely produced in the coastal region and features a talented cast including Patrick Owino, Hillary Namanje, Carolyne Rita Mutua, Kibi Salim Susan Kadide, and Linah Sande as Mvera.
Anguka shared that the film draws inspiration from the current generation, individuals eager to share their stories but lacking an opportunity to do so.
“Mvera” premiered on September 9 at Nyali Cinemax in Mombasa and is presently screening across the country.
The narrative revolves around a community in Mombasa plagued by corrupt leadership, prompting a local company owned by the cunning millionaire Thabiti to offer young people overseas work opportunities.
Mvera, a determined woman on a quest to find her lost mother and an applicant for the opportunity, soon uncovers that they are ensnared in an organ trafficking operation.
She embarks on a heroic journey to return home and warn the villagers about Thabiti, a man slated for governorship due to the deceptive support he provides to the community.
According to Anguka, Mvera embodies the quintessential woman in an indigenous community, cherished and revered for her virtues, education, and the love she radiates.
The film, to be officially submitted by the Kenya Film Commission (KFC) later in the year, will vie for the Best International Feature Film Category, previously known as the Best Foreign Language Film Category, at the 96th Academy Awards.
Anguka has expressed joy following this announcement saying,
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