magazine issue1 film kenya

BEHIND THE SCENES OF XYZGet more on this hilarious show

SIMIYU SAMURAIGet introduced to the world of our new

African Super Hero

Picture Perfect: The Exclusive

Career Talk: Stars & Glitz:Jump start your career in Animation with insights from renowned animators

Take a peek at our ‘I am a celeb’ & ‘Labour of love’ columns!

The Green Room:Movies are good business when they are made with business in mind!

Film Kenya gives its rating on ‘The First Grader’:

Africa Review:INSIDE STORY: An innovative approach to eradicating HIV/AIDS

April - May 2012 : Issue 1

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Landscape

Film Kenya is...

Film Kenya (c) All rights reserved. Kenyan Features Global Audience

“Film Kenya is” is an internal campaign constructed to highlight the various attributes or elements such as culture, lanscapes personality, industry and diversity we posses

Managing Director:Eddie Irura

Brand Director:Grace Mungai

Staff Writers:Carol Kiiru Wambui

Editorial Board:Anne MutugiJoe WahomeDickson Migiro

Photographer:Francis Nderitu

Multimedia Executive:Ruth Mwende

Art Director:Naima Mungai

Brand Partner:Nick Creations: [email protected]

Contributors:Mona Ombogo, Neil Schell, James Karundu, Brian Njenga, Ronny Ombogo.

Film Kenya Magazine (C) is published bimonthly by Broad Space Interactive Ltd (2012). It’s distributed by direct subscription through the online portal - www.filmkenya.com/subscribe.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior permission in writing from Broad Space Interactive Ltd. Unsolicited Manuscripts, artwork, transparencies submitted at senders risk and assumed to be for publication. While every care is taken on receipt of such material, Broad Space Interactive Ltd cannot accept responsibility for accidental loss or damage.

Disclaimer for protection of privacy and information: Broad Space Interactive Ltd takes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or material ALL PHOTOGRAPHS, UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED ARE USED

FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY.

Any information received through responses by Users through any communication platforms in use will be used in whole or in part, in the publication (other than contact information), for our research, individual marketing, strategic client analysis, and for other internal purposes and all copyrights in such information will vest with us. Your contact information shall not be sold, traded, rented or in any way divulged to any third party unless we are legally bound to.

On the Cover27 - Up close & personal With the XYZ teamGet the 411 on the sensational XYZ show, meet the founder and team behind it...

18 - The Green Room, Why Movies are good business. The cons & pros of the movie industry

12 - Career TalkRead on how animation has come of age as a career choice

Labour of love: Meet Tabitha an astute film caterer

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I Am a Celeb: Meet Kevin Samuel who manages to don an array of interesting hats.

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P.O. Box 1221 00217, Limuru.Tel: 020 802 4781 E-mail: [email protected]

53 - Game ReviewNFS-The run and Battlefield 3 unveiled

CONTENTS13 - Film & Marketing BuzzVisibility is key! A look at Advertising & marketing campaigns running for film & TV productions

17 - Picture PerfectFirst Grader: Read why this movie gets our highest rating

39 - Simiyu SamuraiAfrica has a new super hero!

51 - Intenational ReviewMeryl Streep receives honorary Golden Globe at the Berlinale

54 - NutritionBe a man Loose some weight

53 - Film & TV MemoirsThere’s nothing quite refreshing as reviewing golden oldies from our past!

50 - In It To Win It!Motivational speaker and Coach James Karundu gives us the Simple steps for a quick take off in 2012

37 - Location LocationLocations Exposed for their Filming potential.

46 - Behind the music videoNina Ogot speaks of her inspiration and creative process

41 - Society PageThe Shattered Premier - a glitzy affair

Star Profiles

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43 - African ReviewThe Inside story: An innovative approach to HIV/AIDS awareness

Captain of Nakara premiers at Pan African Film Festival in Los Angeles

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Eddie Irura - Editor

EDITOR’S LETTERTHE BEST

WAY TO PREDICT THE FUTURE IS TO

INVENT IT

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Alan Kay once said ‘The Best Way to predict the future is to invent it’. It is now time to invent/ re-invent our own film industry; film makers, television producers and enthusiasts alike must stand up and be counted as those who contribute to the change our country needs to evolve into a developed filming nation. Film in Kenya is at its tipping point and we are on the verge of a film revolution that will place Kenya squarely on the map as a film production power house. With over 75% of the Kenyan population being under the age of 30, the youth represent the biggest block of viewers to be tapped into and one of the major focus groups of this publication.

There have been failures and awards along the way and like the proverbial saying ‘there is a light at the end of the tunnel’, recently our own; Oliver Litondo made us proud by receiving the AARP award for best actor for his role in the Kenyan movie “The First Grader” and it is only a matter of time before more Kenyan actors take over the stage during international awards. His humble speech at the award ceremony was a testament of how with determination, perseverance and hard work, we can see our dreams come true and more accolades to Kenya emerge from a filming perspective and not purely from athletics or sports! Coming soon, the AMAA’s; Africa’s most prestigious Film based award ceremony held in Lagos Nigeria will showcase the best of Africa. With calls for film submissions now closed it will form a good spotlight as to where we are as a continent in regards to film.

This first issue brings together writers, media practitioners, animators and contributors passionate about the Kenyan film Industry, all of whom have made this Premier issue a reality. Inside you will find among other sections and columns; Picture Perfect (c); a production design based review that discusses the images and the multiple elements that made the First Grader a winner, we take you through an inspiring story on how perseverance brings results in our cover story of XYZ. As well as The Green Room (c); (an incubator for industry wide discussions on TV and films) starting with why Movies are good business when they are made with business in mind. Stars & Glitz (c) - looking into inspirational stories, full page Star profiles, Society Pages and how to jump start your career in animation in the section Career Talk & an interesting nutrition column.

As you read this premier issue, I invite you to savour the pages before you, to subscribe and follow on social platforms and get into the conversation. To contribute your thoughts and opinions on the local film and TV industry please send us an email at [email protected] or visit www.filmkenya.com/submitnews

NEWS SHOTS

Movie Trailers on Roma Media’s Digital Transit Platform.

Roma media a targeted transit advertising company with installed LCD screens in public service transport provides entertainment and educational value interspersed with advertisements. For the myriad of consumers who use public transport within the greater Nairobi metropolis it provides a captivating audio-visual experience for commuters. In this same way it provides key audiences for movie trailers. Limited options exist to get movie info out to the masses leaving only the internet and in a few cinemas. This means that you can only reach a small percentage of Kenyans.

Kenya Talent Casting AssociationA hope for change in the entertainment and media industry has come with the birth of Kenya Casting Agents, Models and Talent Welfare Association – KECAMTWA. Formalized in September 2011, their main aim is streamlining the

standards and operations of Models, Talents, Casting Agents and their respective clientele who include Advertising Agencies, Media Houses and Production Houses both locally and internationally.

KECAMTWA is comprised of professionals with a proven track record and who have the ability to successfully transform the local industry to meet global standards. In participation with all stakeholders, they seek to bring sanity to an industry that has in the past been viewed as incoherent, amorphous and disorganized. Their primary objective is to provide professional and technical support to the stakeholders represented by the association.

Like all other welfare association the world over, KECAMTWA is also geared to giving back to society by contributing to aspects that affect our country such as the fight against hunger, tree planting, floods, drought and peace building initiatives using our numbers and influence in the country.

ONE CampaignONE is a grassroots campaign of more than 2.5 million people around the world committed to the fight against extreme poverty and preventable diseases, specifically in Africa. Which has killed between 40-60000 to date

and left approximately 13 million people at risk of starvation. The significance of the impact such a PSA titled ‘Famine is the real obscenity’ is to spark a more urgent response to the growing famine in the Horn of Africa. The PSA features some of the biggest names from the world of entertainment - Omotola Jalade, Nameless, Sauti Sol, Zolani of Freshly Ground, Didier Drogba, Naeto C, 2Face, Sipho ‘Stix’ Mabuse, Bono, Idris Elba among others from around the continent. Our current campaign

CCTV Opens African HQ in KenyaTo mark the occasion, a launch ceremony was held in the Kenya capital of Nairobi on Wednesday. Kenya’s Vice President, China’s ambassador to Kenya, Liu Guangyuan and CCTV Vice President Sun Yusheng delivered their speeches, as a show of mutual appreciation.The officials joining the locals to play a Chinese drum and an African drum to represent the long-lasting friendship between China and Africa. CCTV Africa has about one hundred employees from different backgroundS, many of them Kenyan citizens.

Kenya Film Commission This year the Commission is set to host a number of events starting with the Film & Animation Expo. This will be a build up on the Animation Expo held in the past and will incorporate exhibition of both film and animation works by local content producers. The Expo will be preceded by a short Animation workshop which will include

film discussions. Other capacity building events that are scheduled this year include screenwriting and cinematography workshops.

7 Kenyan Features - Global Audience | filmkenya.com

ambassadors in Africa, are former Botswana President, Festus Mogae, Jay Jay Okocha from Nigeria and Hugh Masekela, South Africa’s Jazz Maestro. It is indeed a shame that we in Africa still talk of famine in the 21st Century. Droughts are inevitable. But famines are man-made. While the drought was an act of nature, the famine in the Horn of Africa is the result of a tragic combination of abnormally high food prices, lack of governance, insecurity in Somalia and a historic lack of investment in long-term agricultural development.

PAWA254: The Creative’s Hub

A place to create and become one with your creation, a unique social enterprise that focuses on social impact, a place to bring about change and bring out in you

potential that brings forth change. PAWA254 is the place to be. Started by a group of change makers, the hub acts as a catalyst for community driven projects for social change in Kenya.

It is a space that makes people engage and cohesively come up with new ideas to foster change in the society. PAWA254 is an acronym derived from “Power” and 254 which is Kenya’s country code. The hub provides for the use of visual and graphic arts, independent and citizen journalism, documentary film and photography and digital and social

media as a means of civic and social action. Established and aspiring photographers, cartoonists, animators, creative designers, video and filmmakers as well as entrepreneurs and activists will use the facility to share, learn and work in an environment that inspires creativity and innovation efforts that will eventually bring about social change.

PAWA254’s like-minded and active professional community will meet and work daily in its flexible co-working space. The space will also serve as an open resource for a range of collaborative youth meetings and efforts, an exhibition center for photography and other artistic endeavors, and a vector for angel investors and others seeking to support social change

U Film It, a mobile phone video contest that invited all mobile phone users to create short films of not more than 3 minutes

and a limit of 10 megabytes on any topic of choice from everyday situations. The video clips were to be recorded exclusively by a mobile phone.

Anyone over 18 years of age was eligible to participate. Simply by creating a short video and uploading the video clip to their website, www.productionrepublic.co.ke, you would then invite your friends to vote for you for a chance to win the fabulous filmmaker cash prizes. Registered members on their website would upload or submit their

creative video’s for a chance of winning the filmmaker’s cash prizes. U Film It mobile phone video contest ended on November 30th 2011 with the award giving ceremony held on 10th of December 2011 at Katanazi Restaurant located on Kirichwa road in Kilimani area.

Kiama Muriithi who is the Creative Consultant for Production Republic delivered a speech at the Award Ceremony stating that his main passion is nurturing and developing creative talent in Film, TV and the creative economy as a whole. This he believes will lead to more Kenyans pursuing and building talent oriented businesses.

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Kenyan Features - Global Audience | filmkenya.com

Email Comments: [email protected]

in Kenya. There will be regular programs and training which will promote skill-sharing and empower a new generation of young professionals and disadvantaged youth to effect social change through tangible, innovative projects. Programmatic focus will be on photography and visual arts, documentary and mixed media, traditional and citizen journalism, and community organizing. A primary part of the project’s mission will be to make the space and its resources accessible to the grassroots. Beyond, building a strong community in-house, PAWA254 has tangible plans to engage over 10,000 youths through trainings and outreach programs over the next year. For motivated youth, participation is expected to lead to professional employment and sources of income generation. PAWA254 thus seeks to improve the socioeconomic situation of youth from underprivileged backgrounds by providing the skills and resources that will enable them to pursue careers and livelihoods, particularly in journalism, media, and arts. Its projects will build upon the experience and intent of Picha Mtaani, a street photography exhibition that has helped the nation heal and address the post-election violence that traumatized Kenya in 2007-2008. By Carol Wambui

“Let’s come together and bring about change in the society. We are the leaders we have been waiting for and we need to take up the mantle and exercise our duty as Kenyan citizens who work towards enlightening the masses and revolutionalize our thinking and bring forth a society that is change efficient. “ Boniface Mwangi. Kenya Boys is a feature documentary telling the

true story of five Kenyan youths from “Kosovo” a small neighborhood in Mathare Valley

the second largest slum in the country. A story of struggle; of Kenyan youths using the art of music and Hip Hop dance to positively uplift themselves and their communities above their circumstances. As a dance crew they face challenges other similar dance troupes simply do not. The need to find time apart from school to gather, electricity to power their radios, dance floor space safe enough to practice, and enough money for transportation and uniforms. The boys audition for the country’s hottest reality dance show “Sakata Dance Battle”. Though in previous years

COMING SOONNEWS SHOTS


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the boys were too young to audition they have since banded together and in 2011 were all eligible to participate. Already underdogs as the youngest on the show, and despite the odds, the “black blingers”, were among the top teams to dance on the Sakata Dance Battle.

A week before the tapeing of episode one of Sakata, two members, Sanchez and Dougie were scheduled to meet the others for a quick after school practice. While running late to practice, Sanchez, the group’s most talented dancer was hit by a car while crossing the streets of Nairobi nearly killing him. Kenya Boys, the documentary covers the team’s rise from hip hop outsiders to their amazing success dancing all the way to the finals of the television show overcoming tremendous

odds and chasing their goal to win a million Kenyan shillings and dance their way to a brand new destiny. Filming began in late January 2011 for two weeks with a follow up two weeks of filming in July throughout various locations in Nairobi and Eastlands. The crew shot the film in high definition using Canon 5D Mark II and 7D digital SLRs.

Kenya Boys is set for release through Citizen TV and Worldwide in Spring of 2012. The film is directed by Alvin Shen. More information can be found online at: www.kenyaboysthemovie.com or Facebook.com/kenyaboys


A true underdog story combined with the layers of story revolving around each of these boy’s lives, the

immense challenges they have yet to overcome

10Kenyan Features - Global Audience | filmkenya.com

and getting a firm grip on your animation techniques. Some animators take extra courses like human/animal anatomy to increase their understanding of how the body moves and be able to replicate it. But before any digital artist can sit down and produce an animation, he/she has to come to terms with how much time it actually takes to make a good animated production. With experience comes animation content (that you have created) which can then be stitched together to create a solid portfolio. This will enable potential employers to see what one can do and will also give one a chance to express that they are the guy for the job. The most important thing is to get as much visibility as possible. Thanks to organizations like the Kenya Film Commission and its collaborators, most animators/animation companies get to increase their visibility in their annual animation expo. There is also a growing demand for digital artists and all round animators mainly because of the growing need for of quality productions in areas like film

production, special FX and animated movies. More jobs are popping up in areas like interior design, mobile applications, medical research and even corporate presentations! With this realization comes competition. Production companies and individual clients are always looking out for new and creative talent. All these vast areas give an animator a number of options; he can either seek casual

employment or become a freelance animator. Both have their pros and cons, it all depends on the eventual goal the animator seeks.

Freelance animators get to work with a lot of people and in most cases have more time to work on their personal projects. They get to understand what most producers or creative directors want. This unique experience provides a good platform for producing an independent film or short story. Starting up is the hardest part because you have to gain peoples trust and prove that you have what it takes. At first most freelancers don’t get paid a lot (if they are paid at all) but it slowly changes as you progress and get to learn how the industry works.

As one of the new emerging career paths, animation is a profession filled with excitement and opportunity. It has been integrated into almost every sector, mostly

in the entertainment industry e.g. movies, music videos, video games, commercials etc. Its applications are relatively infinite; a good animator can apply his skills in almost any industry out there. Animation can be one of the most useful creative tools if you use it properly or a waste of valuable time.

Becoming a successful animator is rather challenging because unlike most career paths it requires imagination and a lot of creative thinking especially when dealing with commercials. As usual a little post secondary training is required, although some people with natural talents might slip through without any formal schooling. Kenya is lucky enough to have a few quality colleges within its borders. Most do not stand up to international standards but they do provide a good foundation to kick start an animator’s career. It is very useful to learn the dominating software’s in the field as they can make you slightly more appealing among other qualified animators. Most animators hold a certificate or diploma in graphic design which has proven to be a very strong tool in an animators career. This is good but not good enough to propel their careers to new heights.

Animation programs offer lessons in either 3D (3 dimensional), 2D (2 dimensional) animation or in some cases, both. In most cases an aspiring animator will learn how to work as a unit and even start up their own animation company. Students will also learn basic production processes (which are not so different from the regular film production process) like storyboards, sound FX, character development etc. it also helps if you know a little about computer hardware and how it can affect your work and time. Work experience is one of the most important cornerstones of an animator’s career. Aspiring animators should involve themselves in internship programs to improve on their time management skills and also to expose themselves to other professionals in the field who might have tips on what is needed to become a star in the field. This would also be a good time to start experimenting with new ideas

CAREER TALK

Animation

by Bryan Njenga


Employed animators on the other hand get to know first hand how a production company operates. They get to grasp concepts like consistency, client scouting and corporate image which are very important if he/she is thinking of starting up a production company. Professional companies mostly hire animators for specific positions in the production pipeline. An animator can specispecialize in to one of many technical fields in the animation department. He/she can either be a modeler

(creates raw shapes and models), an animator (gives motion to the shapes and models), painter (either paints texture to the shapes and/or create backgrounds) or compositor/Visual FX Artist (creates animated effects where necessary) among others. Animation is a great career to consider, especially if you are an artist or have a passion for cartoons and creative thinking.

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1: Shattered that launched late last year advertised on lamp posts near Posta.2: Mali - Dubbed Kenya’s first Soap Opera takes prime visibility at the Kencom Stage in Nairobi3: In the past the cheapest place to watch a movie now host to Gospel Based events and services4: Movie Hall at Prestige Plaza one of the few remaining movie theatres

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I had always been fascinated by cartoons as a child, and i really wanted to know how they were created. As luck would have it, in 2001 someone got me some animation software from Malaysia and from that moment I was hooked. My inspiration draws heavily from old time artists like Michelangelo and DaVinci. I study their life’s work and ask myself “if these guys existed in the 21st century, what kind of work would they produce?”

WAGEUZI (C) 2011 Andrew Kaggia

The film industry is responsible for a large proportion of intellectual property creation in Kenya. According to the Kenya Revenue Authority, the Kenyan Film

industry (both local and international films) is estimated to have injected Kshs 1,821.46 million to the economy in 2008. The intellectual property assets generated by the film industry in Kenya qualify for copyright protection under law and therefore the Kenya Copyright Board plays an important role in this regard. The Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) is a State Corporation established under the Copyright Act of 2001, to administer and enforce Copyright and Related Rights protection in Kenya.

One of the major functions of KECOBO is registering copyright works and administering the antipiracy security device. The Film Industry through the Kenya Film Commission must encourage all its creators to register their works so as to reap extra benefits of copyright protection. The registration process is simple: applicants collect registration forms from our offices, fill them in, have the forms commissioned by a Commissioner for Oaths and then attach two original copies of the work with their duly completed form. The applicant must also deposit the registration fee of Kshs. 600 in the account of KECOBO and attach the Bank Deposit Slip to their application forms. Once these steps are followed, the application forms are returned to KECOBO where a receipt is issued and after seven days, the applicant returns to collect the Certificate of Registration.

Once the film work is registered, an application can be made to KECOBO for the Anti-Piracy Security Device (APSD) which consists of a bar-code sticker and a hologram. This APSD is to be placed on all copies of the copyright work intended to be sold. In Kenya, the APSD was introduced to curb the increase in piracy levels of copyright-protected music, books, film with the main beneficiaries being those engaged in these illegal activities at the expense of the rights holders. Piracy not only deprives the copyright owners of income, but also costs the government much in lost tax revenue.

As observed from the music industry, the APSD has been instrumental in assisting the right holders, law enforcement

agencies and members of the public to differentiate between genuine and pirated copyright works. Continuous investigation enforcement actions including raids and seizure of suspected pirated works have also been enhanced with the introduction of the APSD. So far over 300 cases have been investigated and prosecuted.

Lack of knowledge among the users and rights holders is one of the biggest obstacles in copyright enforcement in Kenya and KECOBO has embarked on a series of programmes to create awareness among the users and rights holders through workshops and seminars, print and electronic media campaigns. KECOBO also collaborates with educational institutions, industry management organizations and government departments. So far, in collaboration with the Judiciary Training Institute and the CID Training School, over 48 Magistrates and 400 police officers have benefitted from this training since 2006. KECOBO has also organized several workshops, seminars and media campaigns on protection of copyright and related rights.

KECOBO also offers a host of services free-of-charge including mediation in copyright ownership disputes, training/awareness-creation and advocacy on copyright matters as well as legal advice on copyright law and contracts.Currently KECOBO is working on amendments to the laws that incorporate the latest developments and also seeks to improve the enforcement and administration of copyright and related rights in Kenya. We welcome any suggested amendments that stakeholders in the Film Industry may have.

Kindly visit our website: www.copyright.go.ke or

find us on Facebook oron twitter “@KenyaCopyright”.

FILM INDUSTRY IN KENYA

ADVERTORIAL


PICTURE PERFECT

Picture Perfect loves the costume design. The wardrobe ties you into the characters. You feel the sweet genial yet strong character of Teacher Jane(Naomi Harris) who is predominantly in Pinks that play really well with the background and make her stand out from the rest of the characters.

DIRECTOR: JUSTIN CHADWICKD.O.P. : ROB HARDYPRODUCTION DESIGNER: VITTORIA SOGNOCOSTUME DESIGNER: SOPHIE OPRISANUSET DRESSING/ ART DIRECTOR: CHELANGAT LEBOThe First Grader is a movie based on a Kenyan Story that tells and

shows the life of Kimani Ng’ang’a Maruge (Oliver Litondo) who made history by being the oldest man to enrol in Primary School. The Movie was shot on location in Kenya. The movie plays on two fronts , The present where Maruge tries to enrol in and consequently fit into school. And The past showing his young wife, their children and gives us a sneak peek into 1950’s emergency Kenya.

The First Grader

She is placed in darker tones in some places when she is alone and going through trying times in the film. It plays very well. Picture Perfect likes.

Film Kenya gives:

We also love the assymetricalness of this still from the movie. It enhances Teacher Jane’s solitude and the weight of her thoughts. The scenery is also captured beautifully in this film. Underscoring moments of solitude, movement, travel so well they carry you along.

First grader is a film about contrasts. Past and Present. Rural vs. Urban. The Production Design behind this allows for the visual representations not just in the different locations but also in how the are Dressed Lit and Shot.Maruges home in the present is a dark place with little light and rough textures peppered in the background.

And we love the little Tabby Kitty Cat who seems to always be in frame in this house.

The classroom by contrast is bright, airy, and fun. Full of life and vigour.Working with Texture and Architectural Elements gives design value as it adds something extra onto a scene. For example this one with Maruge in a waiting area.

PICTURE PERFECT

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The Director of Photography also did a marvellous job in composing his shots. Through the film there are quite a few shots that are framed almost to perfection isolating the characters from their surroundings and allowing you to focus solely on them.

Pulling you towards their conversations and interactions. There is almost a picture frame effect freezing a moment for the viewer.

But our absolute favourite element of the film. The school Gate. It is awesome. It keeps people out. Keeps them in. Excludes others and almost takes on a life of its own.

Our take:...THE FIRST GRADER is almost Picture Perfect.What did we miss in the film. Banana Plantations. I mean which self respecting Kikuyu Farmer has a farm without Banana plants. I guess it came with the location but that’s what we missed, seeing green lolling hills. But the movie takes you away from that and into the story.



To comment on this review or find out how your production can be reviewed, please get in touch directly through the dedicated review address: [email protected]


The Green RoomINDUSTRY NEWS

A movie is the best investment one can make for the up-side potential vs. the risk. They’re better than real estate, blue chip stocks, gold, silver, precious stones,

income-producing rental properties, futures, treasuries, international currencies . . . better than anything, with the possible exception of investing in your own education and spiritual enlightenment. The data on low budget features indicates that the total long and short term gross for one feature motion picture is estimated to be $70,006,831 over an 18 year period.” by James Jaeger

Movies are good business when they are made with business in mind. I could be completely wrong here and stepping way out of bounds but it seems to me that most Kenyan movies to date, if not all, have not been made with a profit in mind. In fact, I spoke to a couple of new filmmakers here in Kenya recently and they told me outright, “We don’t care if the movie makes money. We just want to get our message out there.” Let me point out why this is a bit of faulty thinking.

The movie industry exists and continues to improve with such things as special effects, high quality digital cameras, 3D images, surround sound, advances in lighting, better acting, better stories, etc., because it is a business. If it were not a business from the very beginning when Thomas Edison set up his small revolving studio called the Black Maria in New Jersey to make the very first films, this industry would have died long ago. If filming did happen to carry on without people caring about making a profit, it would be the hobbyist or the dilettante who would be still shooting with hand-cranked cameras, poor lighting and celluloid film in black and white. And that would only be if their other full time jobs could afford them of such gear and materials.

Without filmmaking being a business, no one in Kenya would be shooting on a RED camera, or even a 5D Mark II for that matter, making high quality images for a very low investment. Without there being a profit being made over the past 100+ years, technology and inventive scientists would look elsewhere away from the dilettante filmmaker to make their advances and thus make a profit. If it doesn’t make business

sense, investors stay away and so do the scientists and the real artists who are trying to reach the masses with their message.

Now, don’t get me wrong. I am all for getting messages out there. I am a firm believer that movies are the best vehicle for such. This modern, artistic way of telling stories enhances a society more than most people are aware of. I am also of the ilk that movies are vital to the future survival of any culture here on Earth. That the art of movies not only preserves the culture of the country where they are made but also makes the world a richer place to live in for e v e r y o n e . But to view them as purely an a r t i s t i c ex p re s s i o n w i t h o u t paying any attention to the business side of industry is folly. It is to deny the very source of where m o v i e s have come from. The p o p u l a r i t y of movies around the world would not exist o t h e r w i s e .

Why Movies Are Good Business by Neil Schell


INDUSTRY NEWSThe Green Room: Why Movies Are Good Business

They have always been good business and they always will be. If they weren’t, as I have already said, movies wouldn’t exist as they do today. So why ignore one of the most important aspects of filmmaking? Why would two Kenyan filmmakers, new as they were, sit in front of me and say that they don’t care if the movie makes any money? Especially when the facts are clear that if it doesn’t make money, chances are very few people will see it. So the whole purpose of getting their message “out there” is defeated without business in mind. I guess this viewpoint is simply ignorance. I am not totally sure.

I have found in the world of art, of which movies are included, that those who teach about art and do not make a living from being an artist or a filmmaker and their livelihoods are financed by tuitions rather than a paying audience, seem to preach about “artistic purity.” To be true to the art of filmmaking or any art for that matter one must satisfy an audience as the primary function not just be artisticly pure. And if you satisfy an audience you will make a profit. A satisfied audience will pay to see your work because you are moving their emotions and their minds in a way that they enjoy. Now you are making a profit because you have a paying audience. Now you can stay in business and make more movies to tell more stories and improve their quality as you move on up the line.

It is the responsibility of the filmmakers of Kenya to enlighten the business community on the money-making potential of movies. It is also the responsibility of the Kenyan filmmakers to enlighten various government agencies that deal with employment, tourism and trade on the positive values films bring to these sectors. It is a well known fact that when the artists of your society are free to express themselves and are supported in such endeavors by the business community, the society and the country as a whole fairs better. The economy grows and the general population is inspired and productive.In this article I am not going to get into just how powerful films are and how they can influence billions of people. I will save that for another issue. But what I am getting into is how valuable and therefore viable show business is and how a smart business person should be running to make an investment in this industry. A movie has several tiers of money-making

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capability. To an outsider, a movie seems to only bring in money by selling tickets at the box office or DVD’s after that. At the risk of being trite I will say this, tickets and DVDs are only the tip of the iceberg. In today’s world of filmmaking there are spinoffs like you wouldn’t believe and they are all streams of income that pour into the coffers of the production company and its investors. I will list of few of these: box office tickets, territory distribution rights, DVD’s, TV broadcast rights around the world, T-shirts, video games, character dolls, TV series spin offs, fashion labels, candy bars, toys, etc., the list goes on and on.

It so happens that I am in the process of helping to produce a Kenyan movie based on a best-selling Kenyan book My Life in Crime by John Kiriamiti. Janet Kirina of Kirina Productions owns the filming rights to the book and I am working along side her to make this film happen and to make it make money. By ensuring this film is made to the highest quality standards, that it is marketed and distributed on the existing lines for such in the world today, that spin off products are designed and marketed along with the film so the film sells the spinoffs and the spinoffs sell the film, it will make its investors money. The film industry in Kenya will no longer be looked to like some sort of hobby place where artists just play around hoping they will garner fame and fortune and “get their message out.”

My Life In Crime won’t be financed by NGO’s who are not interested in making a profit. NGO’s know the power of film and television and that’s why they use this art form to get out their messages. But they are not in the film business. Many Kenyan films and some Kenyan television programs have been financed by NGO’s. They have a purpose and are valuable. What I am talking about though are Kenyan films, made by Kenyans and financed by the business community. Films that have the potential to entertain audiences worldwide. My Life in Crime is such a film. And there are many more to come.

My Life in Crime is set to have many spinoffs from new printings of the book that include photos from the movie to video games, comic books, T-shirts, hats, toys and possibly a TV series. And probably more. These will all be sold worldwide,

just like the film itself. Part of the successful formula is to get the proper financing so the job is done right. It also entails proper planning and looking at this movie like it’s a product, a product to be marketed and sold throughout the world. With the proper business viewpoint, the message of My Life in Crime will be distributed to more people on a broader scale. The business side of filmmaking aids the artistic side of filmmaking. And the art creates a business that can flourish and add to the overall economy of Kenya in many ways. It’s time the business community of Kenya realized the business potential of making Kenyan films in Kenya. Everyone wins when it’s done properly. The overall productivity of the country goes up when a film is successful worldwide. A vast majority of the money from the sales of tickets to video games pours into the Kenyan economy. How much money? It varies. But it’s not unusual for a well made, well marketed film to make a profit of 1 billion Ksh and up to 10 billion – maybe even more. It will drive up tourism and other spinoff industries as well. Any businessperson in the tourism industry here in Kenya should seriously look at investing in Kenyan films. You truly have the double edged sword when it comes to future profits. If you just want to be a part of an exciting industry that has glitz and glamour and has the potential to reach out to the whole world, you should seriously look into investing in Kenyan films. Or maybe you feel patriotic and know that Kenya is misunderstood in the world as a whole and you would like to contribute to getting the messages of Kenyans out to the rest of the world. Or maybe you just want to make a healthy profit and get in on the ground floor of a business that has nowhere but up to go.

The Kenyan film industry is on the verge of a major expansion and is set to make an impact on the world’s stage. It has the talent, creativity, stories and drive that when joined in partnership with the business community can truly make a positive impact in many sectors. I believe films like My Life in Crime, which is very much a part of Kenyan culture, will lead the way into a new era of filmmaking and business. Invest in Kenyan films. Be the tycoon who helped create Kenyawood and put it on the map.




and makeshift fixes since she was bound to be bashed again at a bend not too far from the workshop.

So as you read on, please note that I am ‘learning how to drive’ and I’m bound to hit the curb or a bus along the way, thank God no pedestrians, but then again someone might throw my book out of a moving car and hit a pedestrian. New meaning to ‘book club.’ So in that case I’ll insist the publisher makes the book a ‘soft cover.’ So if that happens, just read between the lines, (whoever came up with that, what spacing was he or she referring to we need more information and a background study of how that’s supposed to work)

So what do writers actually write, is it what makes sense or what comes to mind? Guess I’ll figure that out when I am on the last page. So…this kind of reminds me of

those people who buy a car before they learn how to drive, in the process subjecting the poor car to a series of ‘nudges’ with other vehicles, barriers, pavements and sadly so pedestrians.

They end up with a properly dented vehicle yet it’s still new. A case of the test before the lesson I would say, but then again that is life isn’t it? Experience, it gives the test before the lesson!! I have a set of cousin’s who did just that, one of them bought this really nice Toyota sprinter sadly, for the car, three of them learnt how to drive using the same car. Poor car ended up earning the nickname ‘patches’ due to the number of dents

Learn How To Drive Before You Buy Your Car

A..D..D.. MomentRONY’S RANTS



VICTOR GATONYE

PersonalityA good director must have Art

in his Heart

22Film Kenya (c) All rights reserved. Kenyan Features Global Audience

Film Kenya is...

“Film Kenya is” is an internal campaign constructed to highlight the various attributes or elements such as culture, lanscapes personality, industry and diversity


Labour of LoveInspired by passion

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself, how would you like to be described?A: My name is Adhiambo Owuor, I’m the owner/manager of Harmony At Home. I enjoy people though I get my energies by spending time with myself, those are the times I talk with God and ideas flow and if I had an issue that is bugging me I’m able to resolve it. I’m intuitive though I disobey myself a lot.

Q: How do you define yourself career-wise?A: I’m in the hospitality industry; I train my employees to be respectable and to enjoy serving our clients. My business involves offering food and beverage products and service and home management service to my clients. I’m tenacious when it comes to achieving set goals. I’m also a manager who loves to be hands on, because I have a picture of the end product that I would like to see achieved.

Q: You do catering for film and TV. Tell us a bit about this? A: I stumbled into this line of catering through a friend who is in the film industry. Catering for TV and film is so intense and never monotonous. Each day is different and each meal time is a time to learn something new. One has to be highly organized and efficient to be able to plan and provide meals for the cast and crew. I love long shoots, they really challenge my creativity in menu variations and food presentation. This is because, we’ll be serving the same people say for 90days and you want them to enjoy the meals as much as they are enjoying what they are doing. When catering for film and TV you are the first one on set and the last one out depending on how long the shoots are. You need to have an efficient staff and those that love and enjoy doing what you are doing.

…In Her Own Words…Meet Adhiambo Owuor (known by some as Tabitha)…our focus for Labour of Love. Tabitha is a film caterer among other things, but all of them revolve around the hospitality industry. by M.O.A

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Q: Why did you decide to go into it? A: First I thought it would be glamorous, the reality is the glamour is only on screen. I learned this the hard way, on the job, after a very, very, trying first day on set. But, on the plus side, as I’ve said before, it’s not monotonous. There is no one shoot that is the same in terms of the people, location and the menu. The people you interact with are the so called celebrities. I say this with a smile on my face. The cast and crew are an amazing group. It has pushed me to be a better person, employer, caterer, planner and manager, school is always in session.

Q: What was your journey from, say, when you left college/high school to where you are now? Before I joined college I knew I wanted to be in the hotel industry though in the airline sector, preparing and packaging airplane foods. Though when I was through with high school I did CPA I and flunked it. I wanted to re-sit the exam just to prove that I could do it. Instead I went to college and took a course institutional management. We did a lot of hands-on work and the theory bit of our course had subjects that most people in our class used to wonder how it will help us to cook and clean. But, those lessons have come in handy to date. After college I joined Debonairs Pizza for 3months and I couldn’t take it. It was just making Pizza and if you are not making Pizza you are making Pizza. But what I learnt there was maintaining a high standard of hygiene in everything that I do, I learned organization and learning recipes by heart. So I don’t regret it one bit. Since then, I have cooked for a church, school, weddings, parties, film and tv; I have also cleaned houses, babysitting; housesitting, ran errands…you name it. My thing is service.

Q: What are the challenges you have faced as far as catering goes?A:

1. Start up financing which makes hiring of all the catering needs a very high cost to bear.2. Finding capable staff who are able to execute the job the way you need it executed.3. High food costs making the price per plate very high.

4. Transporting the food to the venue, the cost of a fully furnished catering van is very high.5. Most clients don’t pay on time.6. Competing with big companies who have everything at their disposal.7. Competing with small ones who cost close to nothing but don’t offer quality service and products thus giving the rest of us a bad name.

Q: How would you advice someone trying to get into catering? A: Plan, plan and plan. Be sure you know exactly what you want. Don’t give up even when you feel like it. Don’t shy away from what look like mountains; you learn a lot from them. Your back up plan should be workable. You need to be a stickler for details and a very organized person or have a very organized team and you need to be a good manager.

Q: Is this something you’d encourage them to do? A: Sure if they have the heart for it. It is just like any other career.

Q: What are the pitfalls of the career? A: You could lose all your investment if you didn’t think through it well. You could poison people and be sued for damages. Your suppliers can let you down by not delivering or being late with deliveries. It is also very easy to promise heaven and only deliver middle earth.

Q: What are the rewards?A: Happy satisfied second time or third time clients use your services over and over again and recommend you to others. A happy motivated staff and of course monetary reward.

Q: What jobs have you done, catering-wise?A: Weddings, private parties, camps, Changes Season II, Writers’ workshops for Mnet East Africa.

Q: Is it possible to make a living out of this? A: Yes it is.



Q: How long, between inception and profit?A: 2 to 3 years.

Q: What does one need to get into the business? A: First you need to be passionateaboutproducing great food and for always learning new techniques as they keep changing. Then you need your business legally registered in accordance with the laws of Kenya. You need all the required licenses. You need cooking space whether it permanent or mobile; competent staff for the production and service departments, the necessary equipment, cutlery, crockery and materials and advertise your business as much as you can. Let people know what your business is about.

Q: How is your business doing right now? A: It’s now picking up. It has reached the point of make or break.

Q: What is the best decision you’ve made as a caterer? A: Starting my own business and diversifying

Q: What is the worst?A: Turning down a business offer because I thought of myself as too small to handle a big deal.Q: What else do you do as Tabitha?A: I have a heart for the ladies in the slums – Kibera and Kawagware , so I train and involve them in my business with the hope that it does make a difference in their lives.

Q: Are you living the life of your dreams?A: Yes I am because I believe if I wake up in the morning and wonder why I am doing what I am in at the moment then I’m not living my dream. But, if I wake up tired and still have the energy, joy and love for the job that is to be done then that’s my dream.

Q: What would you say to those who have big dreams? A: If it’s bigger than you then go for it otherwise it is not worth your while; dream again.

You need to be passionate about producing great food and for always learning new

techniques as they keep changing.

STARS & GLITZ



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XYZINTERVIEW WITH GADO XYZ a satirical show has been running for five

seasons and has the zeal to keep going. As we premier Film Kenya’s cover story uncovers the

XYZ world and how one man Geoffrey Mwapambe aka Gado brought an idea to life.

by Carol Kiiru Wambui

Cover Story

“ It is in an idea that we find and know our own strength to execute anything. Passion is that strength”

Inspiration Everything started in 2003. On a trip to Paris, for an exhibition Gado took time to visit the set of “Les Guignols de l’Info”, or the “News Puppets”. Les Guignols, just like XYZ, is a spoof newscast featuring latex puppets. It has been on the air for more than 20 years and is one of France’s most popular shows ever.To Gado it was immediately obvious that the same concept would not only be a huge success in Kenya, but could also have an important social impact by exposing, with humour, the rampant corruption and mismanagement of the country.

The returnBack in Kenya, Gado shopped the idea around to the TV stations, but many had trouble understanding the concept. Still, Gado pressed ahead, and in 2004 he managed to convince the French Embassy in Nairobi to send sculptor Gerald Olewe to France for a month. There Olewe was trained by the team of experts who create the French puppets, and he learned how to work with sophisticated materials such as foaming latex. He came back with a fully finished puppet of Kibaki in his luggage. Olewe held his breath as he innocently walked through the JKIA customs. Luckily, he was not stopped.

Two more struggling years went by until in July 2007, Gado scrapped together a few shillings, got a little bit of money from the French Embassy and produced a pilot for the show.

PilotProducing the pilot was a challenge, but it brought together some key team members who would stick around for ever after that: director James Kanja, visual effects guru Pete Mute alias Majiqmud, and the talented group of puppeteers led by Jack Kibedi. With the pilot in hand, Gado embarked on a new round of visits to the TV stations. He hit a new wall, or rather two. One, the show was political and controversial. That made a lot of TV executives uncomfortable. Two, it was expensive. There were puppets to make and screenwriters, voice artists, puppeteers, cameramen and more to hire. No one wanted to pay for it.

Redefined Gado went back to the drawing board, plotting his next move. Then in November 2007, a TV journalist, Marie Lora -

Mungai, came to interview him for a story about how editorial cartoonists viewed the upcoming presidential elections in Kenya. After the interview, Gado showed her the XYZ pilot. Straight away, Marie thought that this show absolutely needed to be on the air - and she knew she could help. But the next month, all hell broke loose in Kenya. We now call this period “the post-election violence”, but the term doesn’t give justice to the madness of these terrible months. At that time, it became even more obvious that Kenya needed a show such as XYZ. Humour appeared like the only possible way to dig ourselves out of the dark hole we had fallen into.

The SeriesGado and Marie met again. Marie proposed a complete change in strategy: if the show is too expensive for local stations, then let’s make it free. But of course, because a TV Show cannot actually be free, that meant finding the money elsewhere. So Gado and Marie embarked on a year-long journey into Nairobi’s NGO and foreign embassies underworld. They knocked on every door, they made dozens of contacts, and Marie wrote countless proposals and budgets. They pitched XYZ relentlessly.

The rest, you know. Several courageous and enthusiastic donors came through with some money. Citizen TV agreed to air the show, and Wachira Waruru became one of XYZ’s strongest supporters. A full team of about 50 people representing 11

different communities was hired. And in May 2009, the first episode of The XYZ Show finally aired.Courtesy of XYZ.

Hon. Martha Karua with her puppet and voice artist

28

Alfred Mutua and he’s alter ego

Q: When it finally got airtime, what was the feeling like?A: It was supposed to be a bit easier but it didn’t happen. I believe this was the most trying time for me in this project. I ran up and down like never before to ensure that the target was achieved. Questions were asked, words needed to be verified it was like a wedding day and final things and decisions were made.Even after all this things did not settle down. It was as if they didn’t want to and for me I wanted the whole idea behind it to be vivid to every viewer. I had walked the talk, tried various stations hit blocks and sometimes almost wanted to give up but passion drives all these feelings away. Things started settling around the fifth episode into season one. Once every person and issue was dealt with things fell into place. The feeling was challenging to say the least. I was happy that we went on air and unhappy that a lot of things were not ready!

Q: As the executive producer do you feel that you have achieved your goal?A: Well we keep achieving new goals. When this idea came into a reality that was a goal I had set for myself as an artist. we had to make it real and we did it. That was my first goal. I have been setting new goals every now and then and they come to pass. We are getting to new heights every season and the fact that we have now had five seasons is proof that I have achieved my goal.

Q: What has “the struggle” in the making of XYZ taught you?A: It has been a rough ride with trying various media houses to air the show, funding for production and crews. It has taught me resilience in whatever I engage myself in. I have found more patience and growth from this project and over time the production process becomes easier. I have found

new friends that have stood the journey with me and this has enabled me to value friendships plus my crew. I’ve learned to work with people of special mention Marie, my co – producer. Where there is a will there is a way and XYZ is the outcome of sleepless nights, brainstorming and execution of ideas.

Q: The program is satirical in nature and a bit humorous. Do you think it brings out the wanted or precise reaction from the viewers? A: Well that is hard to say because people react differently to different things. We wanted the show to highlight different scenarios in government, to have the people analyse and see how it affects them. The mismanagement and corruption in government was to be brought out through humour. We believe that the show got great feedback because if not we wouldn’t be where we are now, the sixth season.

Q: On a lighter note, what of Jonah Lesit? Was he given a better deal in another show or?A: Yes he did!

Q: Really?A: What we wanted was someone who gets the crowd from the very first moment he speaks. Jonah was a good host and when time came we had to replace him. With that said we got Keff Joinange who was a hit with the audience. This was Marie’s suggestion. He pushed XYZ show to another level and I am very happy to have him on my team.

Q: Political satire show is bound to have mixed reactions especially from the politicians. Have they tried their hand in this?A: Definitely. It involves the government and how they

XYZ: Q&A


play about the politics of the day. It therefore goes without saying that they have tried to have the show shut down and we have even received threats over time. It has been a rough road towards this venture but we are still standing. Of course there are others who have come on board and have seen this as freedom of expression. We have also had the Hon Martha Karua and the Government Spokesman Alfred Mutua visit the set and meet their puppets. It is indeed mixed reactions but all in good faith. Q: In terms of funding how have you tried to raise your own and the challenges that have come with them?A: As I said earlier it has been a tough project to execute with the first few steps being very hard to take but we used those tough times as stepping stones. There was a time nobody wanted to air the show as it was a risky affair which then had us dig into our own funds. Such things do happen but only last for a while and pass. I got funding from various NGOs and helped me get the show rolling but this was after almost hitting a dead end.

Q: Why XYZ and not any other title?A: To tell you the truth, XYZ was never the title of this show. The name came about by default as I was doing some proposals for funding. As I was trying to finish up the earlier draft of the proposal I realised the show didn’t have a name and out of meeting a deadline, I wrote XYZ which was used as the filler for a time. The idea for it was “THIS IS IT........XYZ,,,, the final!!”It stuck from then on as the name of the show and it has no meaning behind it. I think the show’s content and that title worked because nobody asked when we were presenting these proposals and it works well for the show. I guess that is just the beauty of art.

Q: What is the future of XYZ? A: More and more seasons with better puppets and scripts. The far we have been able to do this show has been phenomenal and We couldn’t be happier with the turn of events. It can only get better and that is what we are working on. I could say the future is bright.

The mismanagement and corruption in government was to be brought out through humour. I believe that

the show got great feedback because if not we wouldn’t be where we are

now, the sixth episode.

Puppet heads

On set prepping for a scene

Marie Lora - Mungai & Gado



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8. From time to time prescribing procedure for licensing of exhibitors and distributors of films.

INFORMATION TO OUR CUSTOMERS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC

We wish to inform our esteemed customers that the Board has modernized film classification stickers and phased out the older ones. The new regime of the stickers will be sold at ten shillings (10). The modern stickers are small in size which can easily fit in the DVDs covers and the film cassettes. Owing to the above development, film distributors and exhibitors must ensure that the right stickers are fitted on the classified and rated movie/film on DVD/video cassette formats.

We appeal to the general public to buy rated movies which have been classified by KFCB and bear the appropriate sticker. A film catalogue is also available for film distributors and exhibitors to know which category of movie/film has been classified and the appropriate sticker for such. The public is also encouraged to counter check the correct rating of DVDs and film/movie available at the address and website provided below. We also appeal to members of the public to report any DVDs/movies which have not been rated or classified and are sold without stickers. Moreover, the Board carries out broadcast monitoring to ensure that content aired is appropriate for family viewing. Programmes approved for family viewing are rated as General Exhibition (GE). The public is therefore encouraged to report any programs they feel are in violation of this. The media is expected to abide by the regulations set out by law and the Board urges the public to beware of programmes, which are not rated or unsuitable for family viewing, being broadcast between 5am and 10pm. Pornography is banned in Kenya and should therefore NOT be circulated in any format whatsoever to the public. Violation of this is a criminal offence and if caught will lead to prosecution.

For more information contact us:The Chief Executive Officer,

Kenya Film Classification Board,P. 0 BOX 44226-00100,

Uchumi House 15th Floor , NAIROBI.Mobile: 0701 741228/ 0737 622 760

Fax: 020 2251258 | Email: [email protected] No: 020 2250600 / 2247591 / 2241804

www.kfcb.co.ke | Complaints: [email protected]

HISTORY AND ESTABLISHMENT OF KFCBThe Kenya Film Classification Board (formerly Kenya Film Censorship Board has a long history, having been established in the country in September, 1930 under Gazette Notice No. 500. It was formally established in 1963 as a statutory body with film regulatory role under part III of the Films and Stage Act Cap 222 of Laws of Kenya. The Kenya Film Classification Board is responsible for the regulation of the Film sector in conformity with national aspiration. The Act with various legal Gazette notices empowers the Board to examine and classify all films for public exhibition, distribution and broadcasting in the country.

VISIONTo be a centre of high quality film classification.

MISSION STATEMENTTo provide the people of Kenya with professional film regulatory services through examination and classification of films.

CORE VALUES

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Fairness and impartiality Teamwork

Quality service Integrity

Continuous improvement and innovativeness

OUR MANDATEThe Board’s mandate is achieved through the following functions: 1. Examining and classifying new films as prescribed by the Films and Stage Plays Act Cap 222 Laws of Kenya and the Kenya Communication (Amendment) Act 2008.2. Prescribing guidelines to be used in examination and classification of films.3. Imposing age restriction on viewership.4. Giving consumer advice with due regard to the protection of women and children against sexual exploitation in cinematography and on the internet.5. Monitoring distribution of films to ensure that no film or class of film is distributed exhibited or broadcast, either publicly or privately, unless the board has examined it and issued a certificate of approval in respect thereof.6. Broadcast monitoring of films and other contents and ensuring that those intended for adult audience are not broadcasted within the watershed period(5am-10pm)7. Issuing certificates & licenses to distributors & exhibitors of films.

The Kenya Film Classification Board

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Name: Ojiambo AineaNick Name: OJDate of Birth: 20th April Hometown: NairobiLanguages: English /kiswahiliProfession: Actor

Featured Series: Reflections 2004-2005 (Uncle Tom)Makutano Junction

Featured Movies: Constant Gardener-2004,White Massai-2004,Kibera Kid-2004,The First Grader-2009,Shattered-2011.

STAR PROFILE

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“Star Profile” is an internal campaign constructed to highlight the Actors and Actresses whose talent and dedication produces Kenyan Features for a Global Audience.


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Kevin Samuel. The name rolls off female tongues like liquid. Or so he would like. The owner and proprietor of The Kevin Samuel Company is Kevin Samuel who

manages to don an array of interesting hats.

A music content producer, musician, actor and managing agent, Kevin in person is charming to a fault. At the trendy Sankara Hotel where the roof-top bar is the place to meet Nairobi lounge lizards, Kevin Samuel stands sizing up the crowd and drinking a Whiskey Sour. ‘I talked the barman into making me one,’ he says smiling. It emerges he has spent some time behind the bar in the Majlis, a posh hangout for all types in Lamu, Kenya’s playboy paradise.

‘It was one of my most fun jobs. I mean, you wake up in the morning to oysters and cocktails. And I can’t even begin to tell you how many amazing people I got to meet…Sienna Miller, Ron Wood of Rolling Stones and I even went to a house party hosted by Sting!’ Cheeky smile firmly in place he says, warming up to the tale.

‘I think everyone should bartend or be part of the hospitality or service industry at least once in their life. There is something you learn when it’s your job to make sure people are happy and taken care of. I believe it has made me a much better artist. I learned to listen. I met and talked with such a wide range of people, from billionaires to fishermen and what did I learn? We are the same. Our fears are the same. Our joys are

the same. I take this with me when I write my songs, when I act a role…I remember humanity all comes from the same place.’

The classically-trained Kevin Samuel admits his first love is music but on the Kenyan scene, he is probably best known for his role on the TV Drama, Mali. In the critically acclaimed series, he plays Richard Mali, a young man from a wealthy family trying his best to make his own name and step away from his father’s shadow. Deep down, Richard desires his father’s approval. A familiar script in many families.

Kevin says the role is intense and can be exhausting with long hours rolling into long months on set. The fact that the story revolves around a dysfunctional family he finds interesting but what really floors him is how the cast members of the Mali family have become so close that they really do think of each other as family – all dysfunctions included. Keen to sink our teeth into a day in his life, Kevin takes a sip of his Whiskey Sour with an obvious look of pleasure, glances around the rooftop bar and returns to his tale. ‘The most bizarre thing about acting is getting into your role every day. You wake up in the morning, drive to work and in your first scene you’re kissing a total stranger. And that’s normal.’ But Kevin doesn’t seem too disturbed about this.

We start talking about his own relationships with women’.] Cleverly he steers the conversation back to his on-screen

I AM A CELEBBy M.O.A

STARS & GLITZ


character. ‘I think the thing with Richard is that, subconsciously, he is trying to outdo his father, in work and in life. His father has two wives, so it isn’t totally strange that Richard is always chasing a skirt. Or more accurately, having skirts chasing after him. But he doesn’t say no, does he?’

Off-screen, can the real Kevin Samuel compete with Richard Mali? Kevin laughs, then says guardedly, ‘No. For me, one woman at a time is more than enough.’

Pushed to see if women chase Kevin Samuel more than Richard Mali, an amused Kevin Samuel shakes his head, ‘No.’ he says with finality, ‘I am more like the bespectacled quirky dude in the party with a strange shaved head dressed in formal clothes. I don’t really think I am a ladies man as such partly because I value my solitude. People tend to remember me for all the off-centre things I do and say, and bizarrely enough for the fact that I do NOT wear jeans.’ I ask him where ladies could meet their potential Richard Mali or closer to home, Kevin Samuel and he almost jumps to answer it. ‘Supermarkets!’ he says, ‘that’s the perfect place to shop for men. Look for the guy carrying a basket, not a trolley. If he has a trolley chances are he has a family or is shopping for two. If he has a basket, he is shopping for himself.’ Warming up to his inspired wisdom he carries on, ‘Hang out at the vegetable section, picking and choosing your individual veggies. Because you can learn all you need to learn about a man depending on how he picks his vegetables. You want to go for the guy who takes his time,

studies what he is putting into his basket. You want to avoid the guy who will pick anything without giving it a second thought. Basically, that’s how he’ll treat his women. Carelessly.’ Tongue in cheek I ask him how he picks his vegetables? He grins at me as he takes a sip of his whisky. ‘Very, very carefully.’ Enough said.

Before Mali, Kevin Samuel’s other role in the silver screen was as Kuta in the Mnet Drama Series ‘Changes’ season I and II. While Richard Mali has his flaws, he is basically a good guy trying to make it through life, on the other hand Kuta, is dark and twisted and sleeps like a baby at night. Which is what Kevin admires most about Kuta, not his darkness but his ability to be himself and not apologize for it. It’s a trait Kevin says he is working on. ‘Because at the end of the day, you exist with you, and inside you 24/7, whether people get you or not.’

Kevin is happy about the time he spent on Changes but acknowledges that for many reasons, it was the right time for him to move on. He hasn’t regretted the decision. We talk about his love for music. He has been playing the piano since he was 8, by ear. The very first music he played was Michael Jackson’s music and shortly after that his father bought him his first piano. Kevin has never looked back. He attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, U.S.A. After he graduated with a major in music and a minor in business, he came home in 2006 and has since written, performed and recorded a number of songs. Two of them, If Pain Is Love and Let’s Find Home were

STARS & GLITZ

Where am I going? Who is coming with me? If you get

these questions in the wrong order, you are in trouble.’



View from KICC, Nairobi County Coordinates: 1°17′19″S 36°49′23″E / 1.28861°S 36.82306°E

37

part of the score used in Changes Season II. Let’s Find Home was the soundtrack of the season finale. He beams with pride every time he hears these songs played in reruns of those Changes episodes. Kevin’s finest hour and biggest gong in his music career is getting a record contract with Point Blank Music (London) for Believer, his first single and collaboration with Jahawi Bertolli, a renowned DJ and artist. The single released last month has come out to good reviews and Kevin is justifiably excited about it. His greatest hope is that it does the local circuit and then eventually goes global. Looking into the crystal ball, Kevin would like to promote DJs, which he already does with his company, The Kevin Samuel Company. In film/TV, he would like to play a role that is risqué, shocking, totally off center and memorable. He gives the example of

Christian Bale’s emaciated performance in The Machinist. Favorite Quote: ‘Where am I going? Who is coming with me? If you get these questions in the wrong order, you are in trouble.’

As our interview winds down, Kevin smiles and asks if there is anything else I’d like to ask. There is loads like the origin of his double first name Kevin Samuel, but, I do not ask him anymore. The evening is young and as more trendy people troop into the rooftop bar, he settles the tab, politely declines a last Whisker Sour and starts talking about the Changes Season III Christmas cast and crew party. ‘Wanna come?’ I don’t wait to be asked twice as I reach for my handbag and follow him into the elevator.

I think everyone should bartend or be part of the

hospitality or service industry at least once in their life


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Dear reader, for a chance to get the next edition of Film Kenya free, send an email to [email protected], describing locations in East Africa that are exceptional.

Tom Mboya Statue, Nairobi, Kenya. Coordinates: -1° 17’ 5.12”, +36° 49’ 31.28”

Ngong Hills, Nairobi, Kenya. Coordinates: -1° 24’ 43.92”, +36° 38’ 34.78”

Moi Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya. Coordinates: -1° 17’ 20.18”, +36° 49’ 36.83”

photography by Fransoir Images

FILM & TV MARKETING BUZZ

brought their unique Talents and ideas to all aspects of the media project. The Films cinematography was done by Viraj Singh (India) and Vincent Mbaya (Kenya). The Production was overseen by Ms. Dorine Mwithi. Editing by Njoroge Thiong’o “T.I.A”, who is recently back in Kenya from the Hollywood arena. The Animation and Special effects where done by Kenyan underground animation maestro, Josephat Omayio aka “Sejo”. Music was supervised by Dan “Chezy” Aseda and Jacob Asiyo with the Web development done by a team lead by Muki Garang, Paul Ngeresa , Elvis Seda and Ben Indagassy. Media Director is Albert Nyakundi.

The Actors were also privileged to be put through acting classes as well as intensive one month Martial Arts Fighting and training schedule with fighting sequences supervised and choreographed by Andrea Leenheer and Kefa Kaiga at Colossus Gymnasium. Sterling Performances by Ryan Mbatia, Walter Bruce Opiyo, Jacky Vike, Eclaire Wangira and Victoria Miguda help keep the fast paced storyline fresh and realistic.

“Simiyu Samurai” Episode 1 is the first of a 6 part series that will unravel the adventures of Africa’s latest super Hero with the release of future episodes tied directly to how many votes are received. Visit The Website www.simiyusamurai.com to participate in Africa’s latest film & media sensation. And also access the trailer on our youtubeYouTube channel www.youtube.com/simiyusamurai.

Simiyu Samurai “is a 22 Minute Action Film/Webisode and Media project that seeks to introduce the world to a new African Super Hero as well as showcase a new

business and distribution model for the developing world. Simiyu is the Son of a Kenyan Diplomat that had diplomatic postings all over Asia and recently was settled in Japan. Simiyu an avid Martial arts enthusiast took the opportunity to train in a variety of martial arts including Mutai, Thai Bo, Tae Kwon Do, Karate, Judo and Kendo the ancient art of Samurai Sword Fighting. Simiyu is forced to return to Kenya

after the passing away of his parents in the recent Japan earthquake and Tsunami. Simiyu must rediscover the Kenya he

left almost 12 years ago and is trying to integrate himself in the small rural community of his

Grandmother, his last surviving relative. This brings him into direct conflict with a group of local thugs who have been running an extortion racket in the village.

This Media Project seeks to introduce a new business and distribution model for the African Filmmaker. It will use the Internet, Internet Social Marketing, E-Networking and Mobile Phones as its primary viewing and marketing platform. In addition the unique design of the stories structure will give the viewer the opportunity to vote and decide the next episodes story line. The “Simiyu Samurai Media Project will rely on SMS, MPESA, AIRTEL ,ORANGE cash, and selected Credit Cards as means of earning revenue to recoup its production costs. The Project is the brain child of Robby Bresson of X-Media Kenya who has brought together a unique team of professional Film Production personnel, Actors, Editors, Producers, Web Developers & Programmers. Each have

Shattered Premier

Society Page

Mumbi Maina (second left) with some of her family & friends who turned up for the premier in a joyous moment.

Some of the fans enjoying some cocktails after the premier.

The cast of the movie Shattered (from left) Allan Adika (Jomo), Robert Burale (Mr Njema),

Mumbi Maina (Mumbi), Eddie Gebhart (Uncle Nick) and Gideon Nzukie (Mike Njema).

41

Cast of the movie Shattered janet Sision (left), Naomi Wambui (right) and Ainea Ojiambo pose for a photo.

(from left) Mumbi Maina (Mumbi), Gilbert Lukalia (Movie Director) and Mary Wairimu (Screen Writer)

The Producer of the movie Carol Nguta shares a few words with the guests before the movie premier.

Afro-fusion band Sauti sol present after the movie premier to entertain the crowd.

>> send us your candid celebrity pics to: [email protected]

42

His toughest opponent is the one he can’t see.

www.insidestorythemovie.org www.facebook.com/insidestory

DirecteD byRolie Nikiwe ProDuceD

byHaRRiet GavsHoN & aRic Noboa & MaRiki vaN DeR walt executive ProDucers aRic Noboa & HaRRiet GavsHoN Line

ProDucer stepHaNie coetzee Director of

PhotograPhy willie Nel Location sounD aRtHuR kouNDouRis eDitorMelaNie JaNkes GolDeN story

byRoGeR sMitH anD sHelia cuRRaN beRNaRD screenPLay byDaRRel bRistow-bovey anD suNu GoNeRa anD GilliaN bResliN

originaL MusicbReNDaN JuRyProDuction

DesignereMilia weaviND ProDuction Manager aNNa waltoN co-ProDucertHeo sMitH aniMationMasteRs & savaNt Post

auDio oN key souND stuDio

DiscoveRy cHaNNel Global eDucatioN paRtNeRsHip Presents a cuRious pictuRes ProDuction

Kevin ndege MaMboleo Kendra Etufunwa Hakeem Kae-Kazim Fana Mokoena Sdumo Mtshali Seth Zimu

Following the film’s world premiere in Johannesburg, it will make its U.S. debut in Washington, DC in January, and a comprehensive rollout of the film – including

national broadcasts across sub-Saharan Africa and distribution through grassroots efforts of NGOs, schools and governments – will take place in 2012. Additionally, DCGEP will provide facilitator guides and DVD & online materials for use by community and public health organizations, as well as schools throughout Africa, to reinforce INSIDE STORY’s messages in both urban and rural communities. Discovery World, the factual TV channel operated by Discovery Networks, will also support the project by airing the trailer and shorts across Africa in conjunction with the release of the film. The trailer for the film and regular updates on the project can be found at insidestorythemovie.org and facebook.com/insidestory.

Producers, Director & Cast

Noboa, Kendra Etufunwa & Consul Gen. Earl Miller

“Knowledge is power, and with INSIDE STORY we have a powerful tool with which to share the science of HIV,” said Aric Noboa, President, Discovery Channel Global Education Partnership and Executive Producer, INSIDE STORY. “This is an African film for African audiences that tackles a global pandemic. We’re honored to premiere the film here in South Africa, and thankful for the generous support of our partners. Understanding HIV/AIDS is central to making healthy decisions, complying with treatment, and ending stigma and discrimination. This is the right time for INSIDE STORY, an innovative approach to helping eradicate HIV/AIDS in Africa and beyond.”

Kevin Ndege Mamboleo & Sdumo Mtshali


AFRICA REVIEW

The Pan African Film Festival Set to Kick Off Its 20th Anniversary“Think Like a Man,” the Film Adaptation of Steve Harvey’s Best-selling Book Selected as Opening

Night Film

LOS ANGELES – The Pan African Film Festival (PAFF) will celebrate its 20th anniversary in grand style with a string of highly-anticipated films. The festival will kick off festivities with a star-studded Opening Night Gala on Thursday, February 9, 2012.

First up: The Los Angeles premiere of “Think Like a Man,” based on the New York Times best-selling book by radio host/comic Steve Harvey. The ensemble cast includes Michael Ealy, Jerry Ferrara, Meagan Good, Regina Hall, Kevin Hart, Taraji P. Henson, Terrence J, Jenifer Lewis, Romany Malco, Gary Owen, Gabrielle Union and Chris Brown.

Movie Synopsis:The comedy follows four interconnected and diverse men whose love lives are shaken up after the ladies they are pursuing buy Harvey’s book and start taking his advice to heart. When the band of brothers realize that they have been betrayed by one of their own, they conspire, using the book’s insider information to turn the tables and teach the women a lesson of their own. The movie is directed by Tim Story and written by Keith Merryman and David A. Newman. It’s produced by Will Packer in conjunction with Rainforest Films and distributed through Sony Pictures. The film is scheduled for theatrical release March 9, 2012.

To view a trailer, visit the film’s official website at:http://www.thinklikeaman-movie.com/

PAFF, America’s largest and most prestigious international Black film festival, will take place February 9-20, 2012 at the new Rave Cinemas Baldwin Hills 15 (formerly the AMC Magic Johnson Crenshaw 15) at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza. The theatre is situated on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard between Marlton Avenue and Crenshaw Boulevard)

About the Pan African Film FestivalThe Pan African Film and Arts Festival (PAFF), America’s largest and most prestigious Black film and arts festival, is gearing up for its 20th year of screening more than 150 films made by and/or about people of African descent from the United States, Africa, the Caribbean, South America, the South Pacific, Europe and Canada. PAFF holds the distinction of being the largest Black History Month event in the country.

PAFF was founded in 1992 by award-winning actor Danny Glover (“The Color Purple,” “Lethal Weapon” movie franchise), Emmy Award-winning actress Ja’Net DuBois (best known for her role as the busybody neighbor Willona in the tv series, “Good Times”) and executive director, Ayuko Babu, an international legal, cultural and political consultant who specializes in African Affairs. PAFF is a non-profit corporation dedicated to the promotion of ethnic and racial respect and tolerance through the exhibit of films, art and creative expression.

The Pan African Film & Arts Festival

Captain of Nakara

A Kenyan Comedy Film “Captain of Nakara” Premiered on Feb 10, 2012 in Los Angeles


AFRICA MOVIE REVIEW

The First GraderIn a small, remote mountain top primary school in the Kenyan bush, hundreds of children are jostling for a chance for the free education newly promised by the Kenyan government. One new applicant causes astonishment when he knocks on the door of the school. He is Maruge (Oliver Litondo), an old Mau Mau veteran in his eighties, who is desperate to learn to read at this late stage of his life. He fought for the liberation of his country and now feels he must have the chance of an education so long denied - even if it means sitting in a classroom alongside six-year-olds. -- (C) Official Site

PG-13, 1 hr. 43 min.Art House & International, Drama Directed By: Justin ChadwickWritten By: Ann Peacock In Theaters: May 13, 2011 LimitedOn DVD: Dec 27, 2011 US Box Office:$0.3MNational Geographic Entertainment

District 9Director Neill Blomkamp teams with producer Peter Jackson for this tale of extraterrestrial refugees stuck in contemporary South Africa. It’s been 28 years since the aliens made first contact, but there was never any attack from the skies, nor any profound technological revelation capable of advancing our society. Instead, the aliens were treated as refugees. -- (C) Official Site

R, 1 hr. 52 min.Drama, Action & Adventure, Art House & International, Science Fiction & FantasyDirected By: Neill Blomkamp Written By: Neill Blomkamp, Terri TatchellIn Theaters: Aug 14, 2009 Wide On DVD: Dec 22, 2009US Box Office:$115.6M Sony Pictures/Screen Gems

Viva RivaA small time hustler thinks he’s got a big score ahead of him if he can stay out of the way of some underworld rivals in this stylish action drama from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Riva (Patsha Bay Mukana) is a guy who is smart, ambitious and willing to bend the rules, but he hasn’t made much of a windfall from his talents until he discovers a secret stockpile of gasoline in Kinshasa. -- (C) Official Site

R, 1 hr. 36 min.Art House & International, Drama Directed By: Djo MungaWritten By: Djo Munga In Theaters: Jun 10, 2011 LimitedOn DVD: Sep 27, 2011 US Box Office:$61.8kMusic Box Films


BEHIND THE MUSIC VIDEO

Nina Ogot

First album you ever bought? Lionel Richie’s album compilation.

How did your recording career begin?It came at a time when I finally knew that I wanted to pursue music professionally and in order to do that, I had to record an album. The advantage I had was that I was very sure of what I was looking for in terms of production and style of sound. I wanted a Music Producer who was also a professional guitarist. This is also how my unique ‘afro-acoustic’ style was born. I then sort out one of Kenya’s greatest guitar maestros, Dave Otieno, who was more than willing to produce my music. I think we had good musical chemistry. He understood my vision for the ‘Ninairobi’ album from the word go!

Current gig(s) where can our readers know where to find you performing?I’m quite active online so it should be very easy to know wherever I’m having shows. They can go to my website www.ninaogot.com, or

Full names: Nina Ogot

Birthday: 23rd May

Current Residence: Nairobi

Place to eat out: Anywhere with

plenty of variety.


join me on facebook. I also have a mailing list that they can be a part of by sending me an email on [email protected] to let me know that they’re interested in receiving all the current and detailed info on what I’m up to. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?You know, it’s rather difficult to choose a favorite! I’ve even recently began listening to new music from both local and international musicians and I’m so surprised that there’s still a huge well of talent out there. All I can say is that I try as much as possible to listen to all sorts of sounds irrespective of their origin. This is what, in return, enriches me artistically.

You won the Kalasha award for Best Original Score for the film ‘Issa’. What does that mean to you? It was actually a very pleasant surprise. This was my first attempt at writing music for film so to get recognized for it was definitely a true honor. I have always wanted to write scores

for film and when I got this opportunity from the Mohamed Amin Foundation, I didn’t think twice. I just went for it!

What’s your current and future outlook for the film industry?That’s a really good question to ask a musician. Why? Because there are no divisions in entertainment even though we artists think they exist. A musician should be greatly involved in film because they are the ones who highlight emotions in a story or a script. Can you even imagine watching a movie without any music in it? The images would be dry and lifeless. Music breathes life into the visuals. Therefore, in the near future, I would definitely love to continue to write music that brings out characters and storylines in film.

Describe the creative process for the hit single ‘Muziki’ –(key interest is in the making of the video) Was the finished product what you had in mind before you began?The video of ‘Muziki’ was not at all calculated or planned for in any way! At the time we filmed the video, I was in Lamu and happened to meet a Swedish guy, Frederik Andersson, who said he’d brought a good camera with him and so we could film something together given that I was a musician and had no video at the time. Actually that video is just him and I having fun, doing what we love. It was nothing serious. Many months later, he sent me the edited version, I put it up on You Tube and voila!

Do you record and master your work locally? How did you meet your current producers or agents?My first album was recorded and mastered locally. As for my upcoming album, I have been working with Claus Seest ( Denmark) , Antoine (France), and Abbi Nyinza (Kenya) . I met them all on separate occasions but their work is amazing and they each have something different and unique to offer and they make the work environment very pleasant. All the music for this album is recorded locally while the mixing and mastering has been done abroad.Best musician you’ve ever worked with? Wow! That’s a rather tough question! I’ve worked with so many different and very talented musicians so it’s quite difficult to identify the best.

BEHIND THE MUSIC VIDEO

Artist currently influencing you the most? It’s funny, I’ve been listening a lot lately to a Senegalese artist whom I just recently discovered called Diogal and Salif Keita from Mali.

How would you describe your perfect day?I love my profession so an ideal day for me would be one where I go to the studio, record some music, there after join some friends and socialize a little and finally wind-up the day with some ‘me-time’ which would include having a nice meal while enjoying soulful music or reading a good book and then dozing off right after.

Who would you be nervous to meet? Denzel Washington. That man has swag to die for! There’s just something about him that makes you shake and shiver.

How would you describe your process of writing, recording and finally making the video for your song ‘Wololo’ ?First of all, writing for me involves a lot of inspiration which comes at any time. It can never be calculated. Many of my songs are not really a result of thought but of inspiration. Meaning that when the moment to write a song comes, I stop thinking and I start listening to the song within me as it writes itself through me. I am just a vessel! As for the video, we sat down with staff and students of the Mohammed Amin Foundation and came up with a detailed script. However, at the very last minute, we decided to discard the script and worked completely by instinct. None of what you see in the final video was planned for. Everything was very spontaneous.

How do the new songs differ from your older material?” for your latest releases, how are sales doing?Let me say for the upcoming album, we’re caught between a rock and a hard place because we now have 2 different sounds to consider. My strength is in acoustic music. On the other hand, we put out ‘wololo’ which is ‘Afro-pop’ and the audience seems to resonate with it. This means that my team and I have to make a quick decision between ‘Afro-acoustic’ and ‘Afro-

pop’. As for me, I prefer acoustic music because it has a lot of rhythm and soul and it brings out my voice and guitars better. We are not in a position to discuss the sales yet because we put out the single as an experiment, to see whether people would like it and respond. We will talk about sales when we finally release the album.

What is your take on selling music online and piracy through music downloads?Let’s just say that you cannot really maximize on music sales without making your product available online. Yes, you will be vulnerable to online piracy but at the same time, you will reach the international market. It’s the risk you have to face. Every profession has its risks. As you actively create awareness on piracy, the show must still go on.

Words to upcoming musicians preparing to make a music video.I would love to encourage all musicians to have a plan for their videos but also to use their instincts. Over planning kills your spontaneity and enthusiasm. When the camera starts to roll, just be yourself and do your thing! Also, remember if you compromise on quality, you compromise your career.


Name: Ruth MaingiDate of Birth: 22nd MayLocation: NairobiLanguages: English, swahili, kamba

Profession: Performing artist

Featured series: The Team, Wash and Set, Makutano Junction, Saints, Dramas of Life, Lies That Bind

Twitter: queenruthree

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“Star Profile” is an internal campaign constructed to highlight the Actors and Actresses whose talent and dedication produces Kenyan Features for a Global Audience.


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Have you ever felt like a plane stuck on the runway - being ready to take off but never really taking off?It’s as if there is an invisible gravitational force THAT

is conspiring to keep one from taking off! Here are 6 steps for escaping this invisible force that keeps many from taking off personally or in business.

STEP 1: STOP GIVING MIXED SIGNALS Mixed signals produce mixed results. You must give your brain a clear signal as TO what you want. Once you decide what you want and stick to it something magical happens - you activate the Reticular Activating System (RAS). It’s like a filter that controls what you notice. e.g. on valentine’s day the color of the day is red , everywhere you look , you notice it, Or you are thinking of buying a vehicle say a Vitz - suddenly it seems there are Vitz everywhere ! Here is why it happens: when you give your brain a clear signal it creates a state of heightened awareness and the RAS is on super alert to help you notice what was already there! There is a lot that is hidden in plain sight e.g. Resources, abilities, people that can take you to the next level - it all depends on what you are focusing on.

STEP 2: MAKE SPACE FOR WHAT YOU WANT Holding on to what you don’t need prevents what you want from coming in. Imagine a glass full of water. It’s not possible to add more unless you first pour out some to create space!Here is the secret for creating space for what you want: Weeding and Pruning. NO growth can take place in the midst of weeds or overgrown bushes’.

• Clear the clutter in your life - physical and mental clutter • Delete unnecessary sms messages and unread emails • Review your phone book and delete unnecessary contacts • Release people and issues that ARE draining your time and energy

STEP 3: RAISE YOUR STANDARDS Everything you want or are unable to achieve lies just out of your comfort zone. To rise your standards start doing different things. Also start doing things differently. Increase the number of NOs you say to things, people and places that are not aligned with what you want.STEP UP AND OUT YOUR COMFORT ZONES. Hold yourself to a higher standard. Get a coach, mentor or accountability

partner to keep you on track. You owe it to yourself to be the best you can be

STEP 4: MIND YOUR LANGUAGE AND VOCABULARY You are what you say you are. It’s very important to be aware of the words coming out of your mouth, especially what you regularly say about yourself and your circumstances. So if you regularly talk about how difficult something is or you have all the reasons why you cannot achieve something, do not be surprised if that’s what you continue to attract!

IT’S TIME TO STOP: Self sabotage and arguing for your limitations. IT’S TIME TO START: Saying positive and affirming words.

Pick a phrase, quote or verse from the scriptures - one that excites, affirms and inspires you. It should be something that is a truth’ about you. Write it on a card and carry it with you. Tell yourself over and over until it sinks in your subconscious. Be prepared for amazing things to start happening!

IT’S TIME TO STOP: Giving energy to the challenges. ITS TIME TO START: Energizing the solutions, hopes, dreams and possibilities.

Remember how the RAS works. What you say is what you get.

STEP 5: TAP INTO THE POWER OF INSPIRATION Inspiration is your Freedom ticket What inspires you is trying to free you from something that’s holding you back. When you tap into the power of Inspiration dormant talents and abilities break loose. Fears diminish. Limitations are forgotten. Go for what inspires you, what you are passionate about. Make full use of your unique gifts and talents. Start where you are with what you have. Play your game. Unleash your passion. It will resonate and someone will be moved to start dancing. Someone is waiting for your unique solution because you are a solution provider for someone - just the way you are. Someone is desperately waiting for your song, book, product or service.

STEP 6: PRACTISE PERSISTENCE (The last step)Everything goes through a gestation period before it manifests.Imagine a huge trailer. For it to turn direction, the head’ turns first, then the trailer. It takes some time for the trailer to align with the head. But the trailer must keep moving in the new direction.

SIMPLE STEPS FOR QUICK TAKE OFF IN 2012

IN IT TO WIN IT

By James Karundu


INTERNATIONAL REVIEW

The Girl with the Dragon TattooThe Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is the first film in Columbia Pictures’ three-picture adaptation of Stieg Larsson’s literary blockbuster The Millennium Trilogy. Directed by David Fincher and starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara, the film is based on the first novel in the trilogy, which altogether have sold 50 million copies in 46 countries and become a worldwide phenomenon. -- (C) Sony

R, 2 hr. 37 min.Mystery & Suspense, Drama In Theaters: Dec 20, 2011 WideDirected By: David Fincher US Box Office:$55.6MWritten By: Steven Zaillian Sony Pictures

Mission Impossible-Ghost ProtocolThis is not just another mission. The IMF is shut down when it’s implicated in a global terrorist bombing plot. Ghost Protocol is initiated and Ethan Hunt and his rogue new team must go undercover to clear their organization’s name. No help, no contact, off the grid. You have never seen a mission grittier and more intense than this. -- (C) Paramount

PG-13, 2 hr. 13 min. Mystery & Suspense, Action & AdventureDirected By: Brad Bird Written By: Josh Applebaum, André Nemec

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)Christopher Nolan’s Batman franchise continues with this Warner Bros. release, the third in the series. The story will pick up after the events of The Dark Knight, with David Goyer once again working on the script.

Unrated,Drama, Action & Adventure, Mystery & Suspense Directed By: Christopher NolanIn Theaters: Jul 20, 2012 Wide Warner Bros. PicturesWritten By: David S. Goyer, Christopher Nolan,Jonathan Nolan


Am e r i c a n a c t r e s s and Oscar-

winner Meryl Streep will be awarded an Honorary Golden Bear at the 62nd Berlin

International Film Festival. Meryl Streep

h a s appeared in over 40 films and is looked upon as one of the world’s most talented and popular actresses. She has received countless awards and nominations as an artist, including an unprecedented 16 nominations for the Oscar (two of these coveted prizes which she won) and 18 Golden Globe nominations and seven wins.

“We are delighted to be able to award the Honorary Golden Bear to such a terrific artist and world star. Meryl Streep is a brilliant, versatile performer who moves with ease between dramatic and comedic roles,” says Berlinale Director Dieter Kosslick. Meryl Streep’s international breakthrough came in the late 1970s with the TV series Holocaust and Michael Cimino’s The Deer Hunter (1978, first Oscar nomination) as well as the divorce drama Kramer vs. Kramer (1979, directed by Robert Benton), for which she received her first Oscar. She won a second Academy Award for her compelling performance in Sophie’s Choice (1982, directed by Alan J. Pakula).

She also starred in Woody Allen’s romantic comedy Manhattan (1979) and the historical drama The French Lieutenant’s Woman (1981, directed by Karel Reisz). She portrayed a very committed union activist in Silkwood (1983) by Mike Nichols, as well as Tania Blixen in Sidney Pollack’s epic adaptation of Out of Africa (1985). With Susan Seidelman’s She-Devil (1989), Streep appeared in her first comedy; in 1992, she gave yet another brilliant comic performance in Death Becomes Her (directed by Robert Zemeckis). In the 1995 drama The Bridges of Madison County, she played the lead alongside Clint Eastwood, who also directed the film. In 2002, she performed in Stephen Daldry’s screen adaptation of the novel The Hours. Leading roles followed in the energetic satire The Devil Wears

Prada (2006, directed by David Frankel), Robert Altman’s A Prairie Home Companion (2006), and the political thriller Lions for Lambs (2007, directed by Robert Redford). With the musical comedy Mamma Mia (2008, directed by Phyllida Lloyd), and Julie & Julia (2009, directed by Nora Ephron), Meryl Streep once again showed how versatile she is. She has received her most recent Golden Globe nomination with her performance as Margaret Thatcher in the upcoming film The Iron Lady (2011, directed by Phyllida Lloyd).

Meryl Streep has been invited to the Berlin International Film Festival several times: in 1999, she was awarded the Berlinale Camera; and in 2003, Julianne Moore, Nicole Kidman and she shared a Silver Bear for their performances in The Hours. In 2006, she could again be seen in the Berlinale Competition in Robert Altman’s ensemble comedy A Prairie Home Companion.On February 14, 2012, Meryl Streep will be awarded the Honorary Golden Bear for Lifetime Achievement at a screening of her latest work The Iron Lady at the Berlinale Palast in Berlin. In The Iron Lady she portrays Great Britain’s former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. The film imagines how Margaret, at the end of her life, might look back through fragmented memories to weigh-up the personal cost of her decisions. The film is not so much about politics as about power and the loss of power. During the Berlinale’s Homage series for Meryl Streep, audiences will have the opportunity to see the following films: Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)

Homage and Honorary Golden Bear for Meryl Streep


Tropical HeatTropical Heat

Like a song that takes you back to an early part of your youth, reminding you of your naivety. A time when life was so much simpler, to be young and

gay, nonchalant and unabashed. Quick to run after your friends, out the door and onto the closest playground (or sand pit) returning home in time to receive a despairing look at the filthy representation of your previously pristine self. Film and TV memoirs will take you to another time and place showing the characters that burst through your Grundig, Great Wall, Telefunken, Sanyo, brands common in most homesteads in the 80’s and 90’s machines (and I say this with all due respect) that required half hour to warm up and a gentle tap (with elbow) to spring miraculously to life to bring forth (that was said with an almost godly baritone) the world and stars that we came to love, fantasize and reenact. Action stars like Bruce Lee, some of us need only look at the scars and remember. Programmes like Santa Barbara, Renegade, Kojak, Six Million Dollar Man, Derek, Dallas, Tahamaki, Music time, and you can be sure the list is extensive is what this column is dedicated to discuss. For our readers we welcome your feedback and comments of programmes you loved and couldn’t get enough of, scenes from movies and programmes that have stuck in your mind for the longest time. Email: [email protected] by Eddie Irura

Film & TV Memoirs

BATTLEFIELD 3

Size: 12GB

Electronic Art’s Battlefield 3 is finally out and surprisingly huge! The game offers a single player campaign mode plus a vast multiplayer option that can hold up to 64 players at a go! Developed by the new Frostbite 2 game engine, it gives the player a level of realism never seen in video games. Dramatic explosions, bullet holes breaking into walls and fluid effects are seriously realistic. As if this wasn’t enough, EA improved on the environment detail as much as they could to make sure gamers got the ultimate game experience. Unfortunately, all this comes at a cost as the players may experience a few minor glitches like objects going through walls. Fortunately a few patches are being released to fix these problems. by Brian NJenga

NEED FOR SPEED: THE RUN

Size: 14GBIt shouldn’t come as a shock that Need For Speed have launched yet another sequel to its legendary racing game. NFS has re-invented itself in the last few years after the sad disappointment of Need For Speed which led to the production of Shift and Hot Pursuit (which were very good in my opinion). In Need For Speed The Run, you play as a character called Jack who got into a lot of mob trouble and is racing to try and pay them off. For the first time ever the game offers QuickTime events that sees the player get out of the car and run away from the cops on foot and even assault them! Its not open world so you can’t just get out of the car anytime you want. It comes with tones of unlockables, like cars, locations etc. the environments and weather effects are more realistic than its predecessors but the level of customization available to the player is disappointingly low. It’s a cool game with a few new features that might see the game rise to meet its expectations.


Be a Man, Loose some weight!

by Alice A. Ojwang - Ndong - Nutrition and Dietetic Consultant

1. Look and feel 10 years younger. No body can make you feel and be that way, even if they do, it will only be a short time. Weight loss will do it permanently.

2. End back pain naturally. The muscle that supports your lower back is at the lower abdomen. Weight gain, especially around the waist circumference (pot belly) weakens this muscle, leaving your back without support. This can really be painful until you can’t walk or do basic professional, emotional or even house hold chores and activities.

3. Lift male ego without therapy. Excess weight may cause you to be inefficient because of slowed mobility and fatigue related breathlessness and lack of sufficient oxygen supply to the muscle. In some cases, you may not be able to “perform” in bed as expected of you by your partner; this may cause a low self-esteem and bruise the male ego.

4. Get a flat tummy without sit–ups. A large tummy may sometimes be very uncomfortable especially in circumstances when you have to tie your belt, tie the shoe laces and even in missionary position while making love. I learnt that some men don’t wear shoes with shoe laces because they cant untie or even tie the shoe laces. Another motivation is if you loose the stomach, you can wear the kind of shoes you want. This can come down quickly with weight loss.

5. Stop a hot flush without drugs. Well because of too much fat accumulation hot flushes are inevitable. They can come any time. It is especially embarrassing when suddenly you start to sweat profusely even on a cold day, you also get breathless and people around you think you are either sleeping or you have a heart problem. Can be very demoralizing and uncomfortable. Weight loss is an answer.

Weight loss is easy but can be very challenging. Studies have proven that for successful weight loss, there must be

continuous monitoring and support. Eating everything in moderation, exercising regularly and if the weight is too much, a weight medication that helps you adopt a healthy lifestyle may be recommended. That is what works. Don’t be extreme, starving, eating soup diet, hot water doesn’t work. Men, you are the head of families, book your appointment today.

NUTRITION


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