Film  

AFFRICUFF 2023 still trending at home, abroad

By Guardian Nigeria

09 December 2023   |   2:08 am

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The echoes of Affricuff 2023 resonate vividly, etching unforgettable memories in the hearts of attendees. The inaugural edition, meticulously superintended by leading filmmaker Emem Isong

The echoes of Affricuff 2023 resonate vividly, etching unforgettable memories in the hearts of attendees. The inaugural edition, meticulously superintended by leading filmmaker Emem Isong, unfolded in the vibrant city of Houston, Texas, USA, and proved to be a triumph. Holding from October 26 to 29, the festival immersed participants in four days of cinematic fervour, fostering a tapestry of film-related dialogues, immersive movie screenings, critical analysis of films and documentaries, networking opportunities among filmmakers and creatives. Guest at the opening ceremony that was artfully hosted by O.J Adaba and Mia Black include leading names in the motion picture industry such as Majid Michel, Uzodinma Okpechi, Moses Efret, Ikechukwu Onyeka, Uche Jombo, Chioma Chukwuka, and an array of esteemed guests including Bayo Alawiye, Grace Charis Bassey, Bola Aduwo, Nkem Den Chukwu, Dr. Chisom Oz-lee, Eva Banks, Udeme Ekoriko and Ubong Eton.

The screening of the epic film, Jagun Jagun, produced by Femi Adebayo, set the stage for what was to be an enthralling event. Throughout the festival, Affricuff transcended mere spectacle, morphing into a conduit for cultural exchange. Beyond its role as a celebration of cinema, Affricuff emerged as a platform bridging the chasm between global audiences and the storytellers of Africa. Embodying the theme ‘Thinking Local, Going Global,’ the festival stood as a testament to the extraordinary talents of African filmmakers, amplifying their voices and narratives on an international stage. The closing ceremony and awards night which was preceded by the screening of the closing film, Kamsi as directed by the talented Uzodinma Okpechi. Kamsi clinched the ‘Best Director’ award and won the best actor award for the leading actor Wale Ojo. Winners of 2023 AFFRICUFF include Best Short Film – For the Love of Isiuwa, Best Documentary – Sunu Thiossane: The Making of an African Dream, Best Diasporan Documentary – The Green Vein, Best Actress – Shaffy Bello, Ngozi Nwosu and Princess Damilola Adekoya – Crazy Grannies, Best Make Up – Almajiri, Best Costumes – King Mabutu, Best Production Design – Almajiri, The Blessing Effiom Egbe Award for Best Writer – Twin Flames, Best Sound – Almajiri, Best Editor – Kamsi, Best Cinematography – Kuvah: Legend of The Sea, Best Film – Almajiri and Audience Choice Award – Jagun Jagun. Lifetime Achievement Award went to Blessing Effiom Egbe and Wale Adenuga while the special Industry Recognition Award went to Nkem Denchukwu.