About Nairobi Half Life

Explore:

• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music
• Soundtrack

About

Nairobi Half Life is a Kenyan drama film released in 2012. Directed by David "Tosh" Gitonga and written by Serah Mwihaki and Charles "Potash" Matathia, the film follows the story of a young aspiring actor from a rural village who moves to Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, to pursue his dreams of fame and success. The protagonist, Mwas, played by Joseph Wairimu, faces numerous challenges as he navigates the harsh realities of the city. From the struggles of finding work to adapting to the fast-paced urban life, Mwas must confront his own choices and desires as he becomes involved in a criminal gang to survive. The film explores themes of identity, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of adversity. It offers a gritty and realistic portrayal of life in Nairobi, shedding light on the complexities and contradictions of urban living in Kenya.

Making / Production

Nairobi Half Life was the first Kenyan feature film to be submitted for consideration in the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Academy Awards. It was also co-produced by a German production company, One Fine Day Films. The film was shot on location in Nairobi, providing an authentic backdrop for the story. The filmmakers aimed to capture the essence of the city and showcase its diverse neighborhoods and vibrant street life.

Actors

- Joseph Wairimu as Mwas: Wairimu delivers a compelling performance as the ambitious young actor trying to make it in the city. - Olwenya Maina as Oti: Maina portrays Oti, a member of the criminal gang who befriends Mwas and becomes a mentor figure. - Nancy Wanjiku Karanja as Amina: Karanja plays Amina, a waitress whom Mwas falls in love with. - Mugambi Nthiga as Kamaau: Nthiga portrays Kamaau, the leader of the criminal gang and a catalyst for Mwas' involvement in crime.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

- Nairobi Half Life was the first Kenyan film to be screened internationally at major film festivals, including the Toronto International Film Festival. - The film was selected as Kenya's official entry for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 85th Academy Awards. - Nairobi Half Life received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of Nairobi and its exploration of complex social issues. - The film showcases a mix of professional actors and non-actors, contributing to its realistic and immersive storytelling.

Awards

Nairobi Half Life received several awards and nominations, including: - African Movie Academy Awards (2013): - Best Film - Best Director (David "Tosh" Gitonga) - Best Supporting Actor (Olwenya Maina) - Kalasha International Film & TV Awards (2013): - Best Feature Film

Quotes

- "In this city, it's either you're someone or you're someone's lunch." - Mwas - "Nobody cares about dreams in this city, my friend. At best, they are an amusing distraction." - Oti

Music

The film's soundtrack features a mix of Kenyan music styles, including Afro-pop, hip hop, and traditional Kenyan rhythms. The songs serve to enhance the storytelling and evoke the vibrant atmosphere of Nairobi.

Soundtrack

- "Sura Yako" by Sauti Sol - "Wape" by Octopizzo - "Simama" by Just-A-Band - "Kilio" by Just-A-Band ft. Owuor Arunga - "Nairobi Half Life" by Octopizzo ft. Helen Mtawali The soundtrack offers a diverse selection of tracks that reflect the rich musical culture of Kenya and complement the film's narrative.