‘Leo’, set to be released in theatres May 2011, is a film that features home-grown Kenyan talent like none other. From the set to the cast to the production team to the director, ‘Leo’ is set to put Kenya on the map!
10 years in the making, Director and Screenwriter Jinna Mutune has finally realised her dream of telling the story of ‘Leo’. Leo, a young boy, raised in a low-income home, believes he is a superhero with special powers but realises he is a superhero in other ways. A film made to inspire and challenge stereotypes that people may have about Kenya and Africa in general, ‘Leo’ ultimately teaches us the importance of daring to dream and achieving your dreams against all odds.
The story of ‘Leo’ easily captivated international production gurus like Cinematographer Abe Martinez, whose CV includes Hollywood blockbusters Spiderman II & III. Abe and his wife recently relocated to Kenya and feels that Kenya has so many stories to tell and share, with not only the local film industry, but also on a global platform.
‘Leo’ would not have been possible if it were not for the Executive Producers whom also shared Mutune’s vision. During a Q&A session on Friday, April 1, 2011, Chris Kirubi, Bernard Wambugu, Julian Kyula and Donald Gichane spoke candidly about their involvement in the film.
Bernard Wambugu, a businessman from Houston (US), was one of the first supporters of ‘Leo’ and of Mutune’s vision.
“I was tired of people in the States thinking that Kenya had nothing to offer. Why was our [Kenyan/African] story being told by others and not by us?” expressed Wambugu.
Chris Kirubi, the CEO of Capital Group Limited, was captivated by Mutune’s passion for “Leo”.
“No one has ever sold their idea to me like Jinna has. Jinna is going to lead the film business in Kenya and Africa. She is going to change Kenyan productions as we know it. Look out Hollywood!” praises Kirubi.
Together with the inspiring story of Leo, the trained eye of Cinematographer Abe Martinez, Jinna Mutune’s vision and sheer passion, and the support of many; the film ‘Leo’ is set to take on the global film industry by storm.
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Also in the works is the second video from Sauti Sol’s sophomore album Filosofia.
Many loved one’s leave their homes, their families, some never to return, others return after a very long time.
The video is directed by Wille Owusu.
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