A new Pan-African distribution initiative, Screen Connect, is set to bridge cinematic gaps across the continent, starting with the Kenyan premiere of the Nigerian psychological thriller, Over the Bridge.
According to a statement, the film will debut in Kenyan cinemas on June 6.
Screen Connect, incubated under Some Fine Day Pix and GIZ’s Moving Pictures programme in 2024, aims to connect African audiences with high-quality, culturally relevant films from across the continent. Co-founders Cassandra Onwualu (Nigeria), Marete Selvin (Kenya) and Mizero Kabano Yannick (Rwanda) envision a future where film lovers from Kigali to Nairobi to Lagos can easily access and enjoy African stories.
“It’s unfortunate that even with the growing global appetite for African stories, African audiences still struggle to access films from other parts of the continent,” says Onwualu. “We want Kenyan audiences to be able to watch great Nigerian films, and vice versa. Through strategic partnerships with filmmakers, distributors, and cinemas, Screen Connect will bridge these gaps, elevate African storytelling, promote local talent and contribute to the growth of the African film industry.”
Over the Bridge follows Folarin, a successful investment banker whose seemingly perfect life unravels when a high-profile government project goes awry. Directed by Tolu Ajayi (MTV Shuga Naija, Showmax’s Diiche), the film stars Ozzy Agu, Segilola Ogidan, Joke Silva, Deyemi Okanlawon, Chimezie Imo, and Paul Adam.
Ajayi describes the film as “a modern parable that moves from rustic and rarefied scenes in a fisherman’s boat to the duels and double-dealing of the corporate boardroom.” He adds that the story was inspired by his experiences as a corporate intern, observing the complexities of power, sacrifice, and the social consequences of success.
The film garnered 12 nominations at the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), winning Best Cinematography and Best Production Design.
Over the Bridge will be screened at Century Cinemax Junction, Garden City, and Two Rivers from June 6 through the end of June.
