The film industry in Malawi is taking off, with a new generation of filmmakers producing high-quality movies that are gaining attention both on the local scene and international.
One example of movies that made headlines recently is "School Days," a YouTube release by 4Kaya Films Production, which has gained significant attention and praise from followers.
Initially, We cannot talk about TV series from Malawi without mentioning "Mushroom Shades." The series, directed by Chaz Production, received great praise from people who love Malawi film industry.
With the aim of uplifting Malawi Film Industry, Malawi film festival was introduced in Malawi.
The first festival which was Organized by FAMA was held at Crossroads hotel in Lilongwe on 25 - 26 November 2022 with the aim to promote the Malawi film industry, and provide a platform for local filmakers to showcase Malawian culture and heritage.
Kelvin Maxwell Ngoma, a multi-award-winning actor based in Malawi, has played roles in movies like Fatsani, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, Khanda, Highbrow, and others.
Kelvin shared his thoughts on the current state of the Malawi film industry and its evolution over the years.
"I would say the Malawi film industry is taking a good turn, compared to the past. We have made progress, but we are yet to reached a satisfactory stage as an industry, though but we are making significant strides and heading in the right direction.
"We now have great cameras, talented actors, good production teams, and compelling stories. What we need to focus on now is marketing and branding," he said.
Speaking on challenges, Kelvin emphasized that the biggest challenge facing the film industry is the audience and market.
He said: "The audience holds the key to the industry's success, and no one can invest in a business that doesn't show a promising return on investment.
"How can we attract investors to invest in our films? By demonstrating the business side of our capabilities, and how? By getting people to pay for our films, which will, in turn, attract investors."
Regarding distribution channels, Kelvin noted that in Malawi, he has seen a few, including Kendall Kamwendo's Luso TV online.
He advised those who want to venture into the film industry to have a passion for their art. "You need to know what you want to do and what you want to achieve," he said.
Kelvin expressed optimism about the future of the film industry, citing the good productions of the past five years and the potential for even more amazing projects that will put the industry on the map.
Essim, a videographer, director, and filmmaker, said the Malawi film industry has made significant strides over the years, with promising developments.
"We've seen a rise in talented filmmakers, directors, and actors who are passionate about telling local stories," he said.
Regarding recognition, he said Malawi films have gained recognition not only within the country but also at international film festivals, and this exposure helps showcase our unique culture and perspectives.
Speaking on the challenges the industry faces, Essim said, "Despite our progress, we have limited funding, infrastructure, and distribution channels."
He emphasized that filmmakers should collaborate with the government, and other stakeholders to secure funding, which can help address financial constraints.
Miracle Ndonani, also known as Cozizwa, said the Malawi film industry has everything it needs, but it lacks a market.
"In my experience, if there's a market for movies, it will enhance production, and more production will challenge creators to become competitive and aim higher," he said.
Speaking on film sound, he said filmmakers value sound because it plays a huge role, but they're not willing to invest in it as much as they would in pictures.
"Here at Zozizwa Wide, we have the capacity to deliver whatever is needed when it comes to film sound, but people are not willing to invest in all the details of having something productive." Cozizwa said.
He added asked the government to remove harsh taxes on equipment and create platforms where filmmakers can access loans and grants.
Redison Kandozi, Blantyre Resident, said that the current state of the Malawi film industry is going in the right direction.
“I can say that the movie industry is going in the right direction. We can't say that we're with the same levels as Nigeria and South Africa but we're going there" he said
“Nowadays, we can see that Malawi Series are been shown in our TV's station which shows that we're on right path" he added.
Kandozi said Malawi film industry is having many challenges and the government can help.
“Quality, Location and Costumes is the biggest challenges which Filmakers are being facing. The film might have a good story but if this things are not being addressed, the movie can not be interesting" he said.
“These issues can be addressed if as an industry, have a school or courses which Filmakers, actor's or Producers can go and learn about filming Production" he added.
He added that government can support the growth and development of the film industry in Malawi by having criteria of helping movies which talks about roots of Malawi culture and on stakeholders part, hotels can allow filmakers to shoot their movies in their hotels and it can be marketing strategy to them.
0 Comments