New Kenyan film Lusala addresses mental health issues
By: Sere Neema
Posted on Tuesday, June 25, 2019
The movie’s lead actor Brian Ogolla and Assistant Director, Ivy Thung’u on FULL CIRCLE with Joyce Omondi, come clear on the behind the scenes and those involved in the success and completion of the movie.
The making of Lusala
It is one of Kenya’s finest films yet, brought by Ginger Ink Films and One Fine Day Films. It featured in Nairobi Film Festival with the Director being Mugambi Nthiga, who also took part in the movies, Supa Modo, Kati Kati and Nairobi Life.
Lusala features Brian Ogolla (Lusala), Stacy Njambi (Bakhita), Shawn Karuga (Young Lusala), Mkamzee Mwatela and Alan Oyugi as Lusala's guardians and Alyce Wangari (Lusala’s sister).
The story line…is about a young man in his twenties, abused at a younger age and later adopted into another family. He is then asked to fend for himself as is the habit of African parents. Lusala faces challenges and has to deal with his mental issues that have the end of the movie, feel the audience with terror.
Brian Ogolla’s part in the movie
“I am more than satisfied with the final product”
Brian’s position, he says, was not difficult as such given his mental illness issues while still a young teenager. He has before, attempted suicide too but managed to heal.
He also speaks about how he has had to put his studies on hold just to pursue acting full time.
His challenge in the industry has been having to take on multiple auditions in order to learn and eventually be featured in a cast.
Asst. Director Ivy Thung’u’s take on Lusala
Ivy says the industry has changed a lot. Women have now embraced certain careers like film, with Lusala having a number of women in the crew.
Some of the challenges faced during the filming process were changing the flow of the story and also changing the scripting. However, mentors were involved to help the actors express emotions therefore smooth transitions in every scene.
Her challenges in the industry have been long days, long nights and too much pressure.
Their advice: It may take years to be in the game but you will only bear fruit if you give acting your 100% attention.
“You need to play the long game and not the short game”
