Night of glamour, accolades for film-makers at Kalasha Awards

Friday night was filled with pomp and colour as film-makers met to celebrate the year that is ending.

The glamorous, black-tie gala event at Safari Park Hotel marked the 11th edition of the Kalasha International Film and TV awards.

But did not stop artistes in attendance from showcasing their art and culture, as is the wont of their profession, through their attire.

For both men and women, each seam and trim was curated to ensure that the best parts were well accentuated. Needless to say, these were rebels with a cause.

The event was graced by notable faces in the industry, such as Mumbi Maina, a Kenyan actress and Kalasha nominee, who is set to make her big appearance in the upcoming Matrix movie by Dean Lyon, founder at Splinter Studios and world-renowned visual effects creator and computer graphics innovator.

Others were Mr Jerome Ochieng’, the principal secretary at the Ministry of ICT, and Joann Yarrow, a television and film editor based in Los Angeles.

Kenya Film Commission Chief Executive Timothy Owase officiated the event by lauding all nominees for their individual and collective efforts in building a thriving arts scene by creating films or participating in them.

“Our key mandate as a commission is to develop a vibrant local film and television industry, which in turn creates jobs and wealth in our country. In the past one year, we have had some exciting activities to stimulate growth in this industry,” added Mr Owase.

The stage was then set for the best creators in the house to receive their awards.

The winners were spelt out from 31 TV and film categories, with each walking away with a trophy, a gift hamper and Sh100,000.

Contrary to popular expectations, the commission was keen to recognise new and younger players in the industry whose hard work had finally paid off.

Bagged three awards

House of Secrets, a feature film by USIU students, bagged three awards, from the categories Best Feature by a Student, Best Sound Designer and Best Director.

Michelle Donde, the film’s director and scriptwriter, could not hide her excitement as she accepted the awards.

“This was a school project. I wrote the script in a few days and never in my wildest imagination did I expect to win, let alone be nominated for a Kalasha award,” she said.

“As now an award-winning female director, it goes to show that there couldn’t be a better time for female creators to really make their voices heard in the industry.”

Sarah Hassan, albeit in absentia, bagged three awards for Best Actress in a Feature Film (Just in Time), Best Actress in a TV drama (Crime and Justice) and Best Feature Film (Just in Time).

John Kinyua was named the best lead actor in a TV drama for his role as Njoro in Njoro wa Uba. The highly acclaimed actor expressed his joy by thanking his fans and urging young actors to never lose sight of the goal.

“First and foremost, I am most grateful to God. The (film) industry has come along and yet we are still not where we’d want to be. I urge young film-makers to keep pushing but more than that, I am grateful for an audience that has been consistent with us. It is because of your voting, sharing and watching that we are here today,” the 37-year-old enthused.The Best Short Film category was awarded to Kutu by Peter Wangugi Gitau. The film that features acclaimed actors such as Foi Wambui and Catherine Kamau, also scooped the Best Supporting Actress award for Ms Kamau and Best Supporting Actor for John Ndegwa.

Overwhelmed

Fikirini, a film by Dennis Humphrey, was honoured as the Best Local-Language Film and Best Screenplay. Overwhelmed with emotions, Dennis expressed gratitude to his supporters and family.

“I am overwhelmed. Fikirini is a story I hold dear to my heart. My mother is my hero. I am grateful for her patience and support,” the budding film-maker said.

The XYZ show was crowned as the Best TV Comedy, Mondays and Fridays by Shawn Mwendwa scooped the Best Animation Award, Kesho Pia ni Siku by Ngendo Mukii was named the Best Documentary, Beautiful Eyes by Kelvin Muriithi Mbui scooped the Best Documentary by a Student award while KUTV, represented by Dr George King’ara, won the Kituo Halisi award.

Of all the categories, perhaps the highlight was the Best Lifetime Achiever award.

Lucy Kibinge unequivocally took that crown for her notable works in the film industry.

The executive director could not hide her joy as she made her acceptance speech.

“I thought that this award would come when I was at the tail end of my career, but it has come when things have just begun. I am honoured to receive this recognition, and I am grateful for everyone who has walked the journey with me, I do not take it for granted.” the Docubox founder said.

The film commission also recognised the unmatched work of Huruma town kids for their reenactment of the Mission to Rescue film trailer. The group of young minds has been blowing the internet with creative mini re-enactments of popular films, memes and videos.

Mr Ochieng, the ICT principal secretary, commended the commission for its steadfast commitment to supporting the industry.

“The Ministry of ICT has the responsibility for formulating, administering, managing and developing the information, broadcasting and communication policy.  In this regard, the national government, through my ministry, is keen on promoting the Kenyan film industry through a supportive policy framework”, he said.