Faith Nyasuguta
In just six weeks since its premiere, “ACT OF LOVE” has made a remarkable impact with 10 festival selections, 9 nominations, and 2 awards.
The film recently clinched the Best Short Film title at the 9th MASHARIKI African Film Festival in Kigali. With 2,192 applications from 143 countries, the festival recognized “ACT OF LOVE” as the standout short film from 28 nominees across Africa.
This success follows its runner-up position for Best Kenyan Short at the Under Our Skin International Film Festival and People’s Choice Award at the Sauti Zetu Film Festival in Dar-es-Salaam.
The film has garnered attention globally, securing selections for prestigious festivals like the Zanzibar International Film Festival, Swahili International Film Festival & Awards, Fragments Festival in the UK, Kugoma Film Forum in Mozambique, and many more.
The film, addressing Post-Partum Depression, has received six nominations at the Mombasa International Film Festival, including Best Short Film, Best Scriptwriter (Shelly Gitonga), Best Director (Eric Mwangi), Best Actress (Mwixx Mutinda), Best Editor (Koome Mwirebua, Owino Owano & Cidi M), and Best Sound Designer (Patrick Mbaru).
Inspired by a true story, “ACT OF LOVE” explores the struggles of Juliana, a young mother in Nairobi, dealing with Post-Partum Depression.
Shelly Gitonga, the writer, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the challenges of motherhood, particularly the prevalence of Post-Partum Depression in Africa.
The film’s impact goes beyond the screen, with special screenings planned for underserved communities of women and healthcare workers in Kenya and Africa.
It aims to raise awareness, spark conversations, and encourage supportive action on Post-Partum Depression, maternal health, and mental health.
Produced by Blackwell Films in collaboration with Ripple Productions, the film received funding from Some Fine Day Pix, GIZ, the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation & Development of Germany, and DocuBox East Africa Fund.
It also enjoyed support from Naomi Mburuh Films, Film Studios, and Jenga Leo. “ACT OF LOVE” is now not only available worldwide on MyMovies.Africa but is also open for licensing to other Video On Demand (VOD) services, television, and non-theatrical opportunities to reach a broader audience.
The filmmakers express their commitment to collaborations with partners sharing their vision.
RELATED:
