Two Nigerian films, “I Hate Love Stories” and “Honey Money,” have been selected for the prestigious Zanzibar International Film Festival’s 2024 competition, which is the 27th edition of the film festival.
This marks a significant milestone, as the last time a Nigerian film was featured at the festival was in 2016.
This year’s theme, Rejuvenation, perfectly captures the vibrant spirit of African cinema.
The selected films are “I Hate Love Stories,” a new movie shot in 2022 and set to premiere at the festival, and “Honey Money,” released last year. Notably, both films were directed by Ekene Som Mekwunye, a seasoned filmmaker with a track record of showcasing his work at international festivals.
Fulfilment ‘Fuchi’ Nwaturuocha also played a key role in both films, serving as producer for “I Hate Love Stories” and line producer for “Honey Money.” This dynamic duo has collaborated on several projects in recent years and has just wrapped up production on “Move Like a Boss,” which is set to hit cinemas soon. Their next project, “Éwọ,” a Yoruba-language film, is slated for production in October in Abeokuta.
The Zanzibar International Film Festival has curated 25 films worldwide, including France, Canada, India, Kenya, Tanzania, and Nigeria. Ekene and Fuchi’s achievement is a testament to the growing recognition of Nigerian cinema on the global stage.”
But that’s not all – Zanzibar is a major holiday destination, famous for its stunning beaches, historical sites, and vibrant culture. Festival attendees can expect an unforgettable time exploring the lovely serene beaches, historical sites, and charming Stone Town, where the film festival will take place. With its unique blend of relaxation and cultural enrichment, the Zanzibar International Film Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend.”
