There is so much we are looking forward to this quarter; some exciting projects in development, key team members representing us at major industry events, and some fantastic African films making their way to top-tier festivals. Here are a couple of things we look forward to:
As we step into 2025, our co-founders, Sam Soko and Bramwel Iro will take on new challenges that reflect our continued growth and focus on delivering impactful stories.
As CEO, Bramwel will lead the vision, strategy and operations across our Intellectual Property (LBx Studio) and distribution (Bigger Motion) functions. He'll focus on building B2B partnerships and driving performance that will enable us to execute our slate strategy and keep us thriving in an evolving industry landscape.
As Head of LBx Studio, Soko will lead the development, production, and post-production of our films, collaborating closely with our talented team of producers. With 10 projects across 4 producers currently in the pipeline, Soko’s creative vision and leadership will ensure that each one resonates deeply with audiences locally and globally.
This year, we’re thrilled to continue developing and producing stories that resonate deeply with audiences.
One project we’re excited about is Enkop (The Soil), directed by Angela Wamai and produced by Bramwel Iro. Set against the dusty expanses of Kenya’s volatile ranch lands, it tells the story of 55-year-old Lorna Marwa, who fights to reclaim her life after her husband’s suicide.
Enkop is gaining momentum after receiving support from the Hubert Bals Fund and will be part of IFFR's Cinemart Spotlight on Monday 3 February.
Another standout project, The Ones With The Tempered Flowers, is a hybrid docufiction currently in production. It tells the story of a filmmaker who confronts the life long pressure to marry and have children, especially after a diagnosis threatens her ability to do so. With her family’s support, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
The film’s development is currently supported by DocA and DW. We are excited that the Film Director Neema Ngelima and Producer Ivy Kiru, have been invited to attend the European Film Market (EFM) at the 75th Berlinale. The film will be featured in a market screening at EFM and we look forward to the opportunities this could bring to propel the film forward.
We’re also thrilled to share that Stero, a short film that resonated deeply with audiences locally and internationally, is being developed into a feature-length project. Writer/Co-Director Millan Tarus will attend Berlinale Talents with the film, while Producer Juliana Kabua, a member of the Creative Producers Indaba cohort, will continue with the 2nd workshop at the International Film Festival Rotterdam representing Stero.
If you’re attending any of these festivals, feel free to connect with Juliana, Bramwel, Ivy, or Millan. They’re always eager to meet and collaborate!
The Battle for Laikipia Returns to Cinema
We’re also excited that The Battle for Laikipia came back to cinemas this January! As you know, LBx was involved in the film’s post-production and editing, and we are proud to see it back on the big screen.
The LBx team is also supporting 'The Battle for Laikipia' with local distribution of the film.
If you haven’t seen it yet, now is the perfect time to catch it! Check out the film’s socials for updated timings and screening information.
Celebrating African Films at Top Festival
2025 is already shaping up to be a big year for African cinema. We’re thrilled to see Bookbunk: How to Build a Library and KHARTOUM premiere at Sundance.
Huge congratulations to the teams! We’re also keeping an eye on films from Africa that will be featured at Berlinale, IFFR and CPH:Dox this quarter. Since 2020, we’ve been proud to have Kenyan documentaries premiere at these prestigious festivals: Softie at Sundance 2020, No Simple Way Home at Berlinale 2022, and The Battle for Laikipia at Sundance 2024.
We can’t wait to see what this year has in store and look forward to supporting these amazing films as they make their way to global audiences.
2025 is already shaping up to be a big year for African cinema. We’re thrilled to see Bookbunk: How to Build a Library and KHARTOUM premiere at Sundance.
Huge congratulations to the teams! We’re also keeping an eye on films from Africa that will be featured at Berlinale, IFFR and CPH:Dox this quarter. Since 2020, we’ve been proud to have Kenyan documentaries premiere at these prestigious festivals: Softie at Sundance 2020, No Simple Way Home at Berlinale 2022, and The Battle for Laikipia at Sundance 2024.
We can’t wait to see what this year has in store and look forward to supporting these amazing films as they make their way to global audiences.
Let's Build Together in 2025
We’re excited to continue delivering engaging content, collaborating on meaningful projects, and amplifying African stories on the global stage. Here’s to an inspiring, impactful year ahead!