Rwanda’s film industry is gearing up for the long-awaited premiere of ‘The Bridge of Christmas’, the country’s first locally produced Christmas-themed film. Produced by ZACU Entertainment, the romantic feature will debut in theatres at Canal Olympia on Friday, December 19 at 5:30 pm, with a second screening scheduled for Sunday, December 21 at 8:00 pm. The film will also begin streaming on ZACU TV from December 21, allowing audiences across Rwanda and abroad to enjoy the story from home. Speaking to The New Times, ZACU Entertainment CEO Wilson Misago said the idea for the film was inspired by efforts put in to decorate Kigali to make its festive atmosphere worthwhile during the holiday season. “Kigali becomes incredibly beautiful at that time of the year, and it’s also a period when many people from the diaspora return home to visit family and spend their holidays. That atmosphere inspired us to tell a Christmas story rooted in Kigali and the emotions that come with coming home,” he said. ‘The Bridge of Christmas’ follows the story of Samantha, a young woman who returns home after a heartbreaking experience abroad, seeking comfort in family and familiarity. During the holidays, she meets Amani, whose presence reignites her hope and transforms her Christmas into a journey of rediscovering love. Misago believes the film marks an important milestone for Rwanda’s growing film industry, stressing the need for creatives to explore diverse narratives that reflect everyday life and shared experiences. “We have produced many films, but not having a story that highlights Christmas in Kigali left a gap,” he said, adding that films celebrating occasions such as Christmas and Valentine’s Day — while showcasing Kigali as one of Africa’s cleanest and safest cities — are vital in building a richer and more relatable national cinema. With its festive theme, Misago hopes the film will stand the test of time and become a seasonal favourite. “Festive stories never lose their charm. This is just the beginning. We plan to continue telling diverse festive stories rooted in Kigali and the wider Rwandan experience,” he noted. The production was not without challenges. As ZACU Entertainment’s first Christmas-themed project, the film involved numerous night shoots and filming on Kigali’s streets during the rainy December season. Despite these hurdles, Misago praised the cast and crew for their professionalism and dedication. As for audience expectations, Misago hopes viewers will see themselves reflected on screen. “It is their story, told in their language and culture. I hope the film brings joy, pride, and inspiration, and encourages people — especially those in the diaspora — to see Kigali as a special place to return to during the festive season.” The cast The film features several acts currently emerging as prominent figures in the Rwanda cinema industry. Starring in the movie are Ariane Vanessa Irakoze, Sano Panda, Saranda Oliva Mutoni, Eliane Irakoze, Aime Valens Tuyisenge, and Jabes Azabe.
