Joe Karuga, filmmaker and actor.
Growing up, Joe Karuga was surrounded by Video Home System (VHS) tapes of films like Braveheart, Titanic, and Mrs Doubtfire.
From this, he developed a deep connection to storytelling.
This early exposure subconsciously drew him to acting, where he landed a few roles as a child actor in television programs including Makutano Junction.
“Being on set was a transformative experience, witnessing the magic of filmmaking firsthand, from the intricate camera rigs to the elaborate sets and lighting. Seeing the behind-the-scenes effort and the meticulous process of multiple takes gave me a profound appreciation for the art form,” says Karuga.
This sparked a deeper fascination with film, shifting perspective from mere entertainment to analyzing how stories were crafted and why they were told.
Karuga began consuming films with a critical eye, inspired by their power to create change, challenge ideas, and engagingly present complex questions.
“Film, as an art form, has the unique ability to provoke thought without being forceful, and that resonates deeply with me," adds Karuga.
In 2022, he enrolled in a Multichoice Talent Factory (MTF) program through an online portal.
The process involved filling out personal details, education qualifications, and relevant experience. He completed the first step, followed by a psychometric test.
“After receiving an email confirming I was shortlisted, I moved to the final stage: a physical interview with the MTF Academy director, senior management from Multichoice Kenya, and experienced industry professionals,” he recalls.
About two weeks later, he received a phone call informing him he had been selected for the 2023 cohort.
During the MTF program, Karuga says he gained a range of valuable skills and insights that have significantly shaped both personal and professional growth.
"One of the most profound takeaways from my journey has been the process of self-discovery and personal growth, which allowed me to better understand my strengths and pinpoint areas that required improvement. This deeper self-awareness not only improved my technical abilities but also gave me the confidence to embrace challenges and continue evolving as an artist and professional," he says.
Also Read: Don’t dissolve film board
"I also learned the importance of collaboration and staying open to new ideas, which helped foster a more inclusive and innovative mindset," he adds.
"Throughout my journey, I realised that working alongside others not only pushes me to explore different perspectives but also enables me to contribute my unique insights to collaborative projects. It's not enough to just be a talented individual; the most impactful work comes from synergy and the ability to work seamlessly as part of a creative team.
Game-changer
The hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment was another game-changer.
“It provided me with the practical skills needed to confidently operate the essential tools of my trade. This experience was invaluable, not only in terms of technical know-how but also in building a level of confidence that cannot be taught in a classroom,” he adds.
Moreover, the program instilled in me the understanding that storytelling is the heart of any creative endeavor, regardless of the medium.
It reinforced his belief that, as filmmakers, the primary job is to convey powerful narratives that resonate with audiences on an emotional level.
“Finally, I developed a sense of boldness in my creative approach, pushing me to take risks and break boundaries in my work. These experiences have collectively broadened my perspective, making me not only a better creator but also more adaptable and prepared for future challenges," says Karuga.
With each project, he learned to embrace the unknown and take creative leaps that felt uncomfortable at first but ultimately resulted in more dynamic and original work.
“The program also exposed me to the business side of film, covering aspects like pitching, film law, distribution, and, most importantly, monetizing stories,” he adds.
"Learning the intricacies of film law and distribution helped me see the larger picture of what it takes to get a project off the ground and into the world,” says Karuga.
Breakthrough
His first major project after completing the MTF program was a commercial for the hair brand Darling, where he worked as a lighting assistant. He landed the opportunity by reaching out directly to the gaffer, demonstrating his proactive approach and desire to seize opportunities.
This was a pivotal moment in his career, as it allowed him to gain professional experience in a real-world setting, reinforcing the importance of networking and building relationships within the industry.
Some of his earlier work also included roles as a gaffer on MTF feature films Somewhere in Kole and Full Time Husband. These projects provided him with the chance to develop his technical skills and gain firsthand experience of the challenges faced on a film set, further shaping his understanding of what it takes to bring a film to life.
“These roles taught me invaluable lessons. Despite challenges like budget constraints, I learned to think creatively and achieve results with limited resources, skills that I could never have fully grasped in a traditional classroom,” he reflects.
"Being thrown into the deep end of the filmmaking process forced me to think on my feet, problem-solve, and develop solutions with the resources at hand. The creativity required to work within budgetary limitations is something that has shaped my approach to every project I've undertaken since."
"These experiences acted as a baptism by fire, laying a strong foundation for my career and becoming pivotal building blocks in my professional growth. They taught me the true meaning of resilience and adaptability, as well as the importance of perseverance in a competitive and fast-paced industry.
“I have people I look up to. I admire Antoine Fuqua’s minimalistic yet powerful style. His films, like The Guilty, showed me that you don’t need a big budget to create impactful, blockbuster-level movies,” he says.
Also Read: New Lupita movie fails to impress Kenyans
“Fuqua's ability to craft gripping, emotionally resonant films with a lean approach has inspired my filmmaking journey. His work reinforced my belief that compelling storytelling doesn't require extravagant sets or large budgets, what truly matters is the heart of the narrative,” he adds.
“The best films often come from focusing on the emotional core of the narrative and finding creative ways to bring it to life, rather than relying on flashy visuals or over-the-top production,” adds Karuga.
He notes that while formal training is essential for learning the language of film, understanding its history, and connecting with like-minded individuals, real growth comes from hands-on experience.
“You can only truly learn by doing, by immersing yourself in the craft, failing, and learning from your mistake,” he adds.
He adds that filmmaking is a team effort, and it's essential to tell stories that matter to the individual.
“There are no shortcuts, you learn by doing. Additionally, being intentional about the projects you choose and the people you align yourself with can significantly shape your career trajectory,” he concludes.
Magdalenewanja18@gmail.com
