Determined Duo Ignites Wakaliwood’s Global Recognition

Read Time:3 Minute, 43 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Once Upon a Time in Uganda
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 34m
Director(s): Cathryne Czubek
Where To Watch: in select theaters starting July 7, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: Strap in for a wild cinematic journey across continents packed with determination, camaraderie, and heart. We're talking about the beguiling documentary, ONCE UPON A TIME IN UGANDA, directed by Cathryne Czubek. This tale of an unexpected partnership, dreams, and a shared passion for action films brings together two men from vastly different walks of life.

In the high-rises of New York, we find Alan Hofmanis, a man steeped in love for celluloid, swept away by the burgeoning film culture in a faraway land: Uganda. Drawn towards the heartland of Africa, he teams up with Isaac Nabwana (Nabwana I.G.G.), a self-made filmmaker, conjuring stories from the soil of Wakaliwood, a cradle of cinema in the heart of Uganda. Together, they set sail on a journey to create memorable films and catapult Wakaliwood onto the world stage.

The documentary dips into the essence of this duo, their fiery determination serving as the narrative's driving force. Hofmanis, having leaped out of his comfort zone, pins his hopes on Nabwana's genius. This bond, powered by faith and camaraderie, forms the beating heart of ONCE UPON A TIME IN UGANDA.

A local media giant proposes a TV spin-off of CAPTAIN ALEX, one of Wakaliwood’s biggest successes to date, setting off a cascade of apprehensions in Hofmanis. This detour could thwart their dreams, but let's focus on Nabwana, the soul of Wakaliwood, for a moment. This man’s transformation from a brick-maker to a dream-weaver is the film's climactic arc. His story, sprinkled with just the right measure of wit and motivation, makes an indelible mark. Nabwana's commitment to his community, which he rallies for his film productions, underscores his enthusiasm for his craft.

Predicting the path of Nabwana's film voyage is akin to forecasting a storm, intriguing and uncertain. Will he ascend to global fame or choose the way less traveled, akin to indie filmmakers? Whatever the future holds, one thing remains crystal clear: Nabwana's unwavering commitment to his art and community is best illustrated when he trains local kids in martial arts, aspiring to include them in his cinematic endeavors.

Meanwhile, Hofmanis's arc proves equally compelling. Nursing a broken heart fueled by his passion for movies, he embarks on an impromptu odyssey to Uganda. His bond with Nabwana strengthens quickly, fortified by their shared love for cinema, and together they create Ramon Film Productions. Hofmanis finds his calling in extending Nabwana's reach and solidifying their financial foothold.

ONCE UPON A TIME IN UGANDA offers viewers a backstage pass into the duo's unadulterated filmmaking process. Czubek spotlights this resilient, low-budget operation, showcasing how the crew's unwavering dedication breathes life into their productions. From resourceful use of local materials for props and makeup to the community spirit in feeding the cast, every aspect underscores the exhilarating reality of grassroots cinema.

We also get a glimpse of the pulsating energy of Uganda. The teeming city life, the unique flavor of the local cuisine, and the omnipresent African landscape create a captivating backdrop against which Nabwana strives to make a difference through his craft.

ONCE UPON A TIME IN UGANDA encapsulates the ecstatic spirit of creativity and the resilience of dreamers. It stands as a powerful narrative, mirroring the transformative power of cinema and the audacity of those who dare to dream big, even when facing daunting odds. Despite budgetary restrictions, the creative duo successfully morphs Wakaliwood into a lively filmmaking hub, igniting hopes for a brighter future and leaving an indelible imprint on the world of cinema.

I haven’t dipped my toe too deep into the world of Wakaliwood, but I've loved everything I’ve seen so far.

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[photo courtesy of YELLOW VEIL PICTURES, DRAFTHOUSE FILMS]