Happening for the first time, a four-day cinematic experience is set to take place in the streets and neighborhood of Nyamirambo. The event is a celebration of cinema that honors filmmakers and will bring cinema directly to people through their programs. It is slated for July 27-30.
Organised by Imitana Productions, a Kigali-based film production company, the cinematic experience aims at serving as a nexus between the international film scene, regional audiences and local industries, redefining the movie-going experience. The opening ceremony is set to take place at the Car-free zone.
During its first edition, the event will feature renowned filmmaker, Jean-Pierre Bekolo, recognized for his unique storytelling style and artistic innovation that has significantly influenced the African film industry. During the festival, attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in three of Bekolo's films. Furthermore, Bekolo will conduct a master class titled ‘Exploring Afro Aesthetics in Cinema’, offering exclusive insights into the vibrant realm of African aesthetics.
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One of the main venues for this event is the historic Cine Elmay ‘Kwa Mayaka’, one of Kigali's oldest cinemas located in Nyamirambo, at risk of shutting down. The festival strives to breathe new life into such cinematic landmarks and advocates for their preservation.
Dubbed ‘Cine-Quartier’, Cinema in community spaces is a program that tends to bring cinema directly to people. There will be a set up of open-air screens in community spaces throughout the dynamic Biryogo neighborhood. This initiative is to transform public spaces into artistic hubs, featuring short films predominantly by Rwandan filmmakers.
Talking to The New Times, Philbert Aime Mbabazi Sharangabo, one of the organizers said that the initiative will be officially debuted and that the festival shall have other editions coming up.
"This festival will bring cinema to the people in their neighborhood as we honor individuals in the industry. During the opening ceremony the people of Nyamirambo will watch ‘Do the Right Thing’, a 1989 American comedy-drama film produced, written, and directed by Spike Lee,” he said.
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Among other programs for the event includes the launch of a youth program for 15 to 25-year-olds, cultivating a passion for cinema through art clubs in schools and universities. The festival also features the ‘Gems in the Spotlight’ program, acknowledging the outstanding contributions of Rwandan filmmakers.
The festival will host a series of industry events, including panel discussions and networking events, connecting different actors within the film industry and fostering dialogue on various aspects of the industry's advancement.
About Imitana productions
The film production company based in Kigali, was founded by award-winning filmmakers Philbert Aimé Mbabazi Sharangabo and Samuel Ishimwe in 2013. They have produced award-winning films, provided film training programs and now contribute to developing the Rwandan film industry through the Kigali Cine Junction project.