About two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of attending the Kilele Summit’s Sound Communities event at Unseen Nairobi. As someone who typically gravitates toward films I know, I enjoy using cinema as a form of escapism. I walked into this screening with no prior knowledge of the lineup, except that the films revolved around music. What unfolded was a deeply enriching experience that expanded my appreciation for film and music culture.
The first film of the evening, “COSMOS Embassy Film: Karachi, Pakistan“ by Le Guess Who, was a refreshing and innovative approach to documentary filmmaking. The film follows Honiunhoni (meaning “Impossible Possibilities”), an independent music production collective, as they immerse us in Pakistan’s vibrant musical traditions. It beautifully captures traditional artists performing in their natural spaces, offering a glimpse into how this rich cultural heritage is preserved and passed down through generations. It was refreshing to see older men being vulnerable and happy in healthy ways, expressing themselves through music. What stood out most for me was the film’s creative use of mixed aspect ratios. This technique, rather than being jarring, added a unique visual texture that drew me deeper into the narrative. The filmmakers began shooting in portrait mode and seamlessly incorporated it into the storytelling, creating a visually cohesive piece that perfectly complemented the musical journey.
The second film, “6SENSE“, produced by Kamva Collective and directed by Amilcar Patel and Chris Kets, offered an intriguing narrative centered on Mxshi, a South African Gqom artist. This hybrid documentary not only reintroduced me to Gqom music (a genre I hadn’t explored much) but also reignited my interest in it. Mxshi’s latest album serves as the film’s audio companion, adding depth to the experience. The film masterfully blends storytelling with reenacted flashbacks of his life and Mxshi’s own narration, creating an immersive exploration of his musical journey. The score by Mxshi was particularly compelling, pulling me into his world and helping me better understand his creative process. The club scene was such an eye opener and has forced me to acknowledge my privilege in an ableist society. It sparked an interest in seeing more films told through unique lenses, sharing stories of differently abled persons. As a visual learner, I think it is crucial to engage with narratives that challenge our perspectives and promote inclusivity.
The third film, “Come Dance with Me“ by Nwaọ, was nothing short of breathtaking. This short film delves into themes of dance and queerness, taking viewers on a journey through dance across various cultures within the African and Black Diaspora. It centers gender and sexuality marginalized individuals while exploring how dance serves as a form of self expression in communal activities, from weddings to funerals. Nwaọ described this project as their first “moving collage,” which I found to be a beautiful way to frame their art style. The film celebrates the universal language of drumbeats and dance while emphasizing their significance in different cultural contexts.
The final film of the night was “Steve Happi, Freedom Beats from Douala | Off the Map (Jail Time Records).” This documentary takes us to Cameroon to meet Steve Happi, a producer and sound engineer who cofounded Jail Time Records inside Douala’s central prison. Happi shares how music became his sanctuary during his incarceration, a safe space not only for him but also for other imprisoned men. The film introduces us to these individuals as they come together for freestyle sessions, using music as a means of building community outside the prison walls. Happi continues to use music as a tool for hope and reintegration for those who leave prison, making his story both inspiring and deeply moving.
These films were insightful and profoundly impactful. They were curated with care, offering a tapestry of narratives that celebrated music as both an art form and a cultural bridge. I especially appreciated that many of the films focused on African and South Asian stories. It was refreshing to see these voices represented so authentically on screen. This event not only deepened my appreciation for global music traditions but also reaffirmed the power of storytelling in connecting communities through sound and culture.
