When I first read the preview of Supa Modo, I immediately became afraid to watch it because I knew it would probably break my heart because it is a story of 9-year old Jo, played by Stycie Waweru, battling a terminal illness. But instead of wearing me out, Supa Modo raised me and inspired me more than I could ever imagine.
Witty little Jo is obsessed with superheroes, so much that she dreams of becoming one and having super powers. It’s what keeps her lively and literally alive when she is down and so sick. Jo’s mother Kathryn, played by Maryanne Nungo, feels like it will be a sad affair for her daughter to spend her last days in hospital and so opts to take her home—a move that doesn’t settle well with Jo’s big sister, played by Nyawara Ndambia.
When Jo gets home, we are introduced to the village of Maweni and interesting characters within. We learn that her mother has been working as a midwife for many families for years; and for that reason the whole village is indebted to her and would like to help her through the tough period.
On the other hand, Mwix uses the last days to empower Jo. She wants her mother and Mike, a local VJ, to grant Jo her last wishes. They are both convinced and so the mother goes on to persuade the people of Maweni. It takes the whole village to help Jo’s dreams come true. They begin to make a film with Jo starring as … You guessed right! A superhero! This is the turning point of the film. From here on, it’s all emotions, laughter and tears as we get into the making of the movie. The writers: Wanjeri Gakuru, Silas Miami, Mugambi Nthiga and Kamau Wandugu achieve an effect so hard to attain in screenplays –handling a delicate character and painting their misfortune as a heroic tale-cum-blessing, leaving behind an illustrious legacy.
From the start of the film, to the very end, there is seamless unity between the film writers, director Likarion Wainaina and cinematographer Enos Olik as they create a poignant yet moving film. When the film ended, I felt like it was my personal victory even though it was a community’s. Great films leave that kind of lasting effect on you. Supa Modo is truly magical and extremely beautiful. It will inspire you to be good, follow your dreams or help others. Delivered by MY FRIENDS (writers: Wanjeri, Silas and Mugambi), of all Kenyan films I’ve watched, Supa Modo takes the crown for most original and unique script yet. You have to watch it!
BONUS: I watched the Africa Premier of the One Fine Day and Ginger Ink’s new film at the just concluded Nairobi Film Festival. The film is by ONE FINE DAY FILMS in co-production with GINGER INK FILMS AFRICA in association with DW AKADEMIE. Its production is supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation (BMZ), the Göhde Foundation and ARRI Media.
It’s now showing at Prestige Plaza and Nyali Cinemax in Mombasa till 19th April 2018.
- Thank you Sarika, Verena and Ginger Ink for giving me and my PR team an opportunity to facilitate a media trip to location of film production a few months ago. Small things we do for grand projects. 💕
Black Roses 