Tides, a new Kenyan romantic drama centred around music, written and directed by Reuben Odanga (known for Mo-Faya and Nafsi), is set to debut at Century Cinemax on August 8.
This film unfolds against the scenic backdrop of the Kenyan coast, focusing on a musical couple, Salma and Biko, who struggle to keep their relationship intact amid dwindling performance opportunities and the financial strain of their daughter’s serious health condition. As their situation becomes increasingly precarious, the decisions they make may irrevocably alter their bond.
The cast features notable talents such as Sarah Hassan (Crime and Justice), Brian Kabugi (MTV Shuga Mashariki), Minne Kariuki in her film debut, and South African actor Dumisani Mbebe from the Netflix series Savage Beauty. Additional cast members include Sikukuu Hamisi Jumaa (Sultana), Zippy Okoth (Nafsi), Andrew Muthure (Untying Kantai), and Muthoni Gathecha (Boda Love).
“In a setting where poverty can strip individuals of dignity and opportunity, moral dilemmas are seldom clear-cut,” Odanga explains.
Drawing inspiration from the nuances of interactions between tourists and locals at the Kenyan coast, Odanga aims to highlight the surrounding judgment, secrecy, and moral ambiguity that often accompany such relationships.
“With Tides, I want to delve into the human experiences that define these interactions and the intricate balance of poverty, desire, power, and survival,” he adds. “The film prompts viewers to challenge preconceived notions and confront uncomfortable truths.”
As a narrative driven by music, Tides integrates original songs crafted specifically for the film.
For Odanga, music was essential to storytelling. The idea of incorporating original tracks was inspired by Silayio, an award-winning singer-songwriter and actor who also serves as the film’s music director and composer.
“She challenged me in ways I appreciated,” Odanga states. “Collaborating with her has been a rewarding experience.”
Professionally known as Silayio, the artist has proudly represented Kenya on various international platforms, having won Best Female Artist (East Africa) at the 2005 Kora Awards and finishing seventh on The Voice of Holland in 2017. More recently, she participated in the Dutch singing competition The Winner Takes It All in 2026.
Working on Tides permitted Silayio to experiment with musical styles she had not previously explored. “I can sense my growth in both skill and confidence through this project,” she shares.
The endeavour also allowed her to weave together her interests in acting, singing, and songwriting.
“I created and performed the music from the perspective of how it would feel to be on screen,” says Silayio, whose acting credits include Odanga’s Nafsi, Philit Productions’ Untying Kantai, and Maisha Magic’s Kina. “This perspective was influenced by my experiences as an actor, making it enjoyable to explore this intersection.”
Tides is produced by Winnie Adisa, with Jim Bishop as director of photography, and Odanga and Jaqueline Kalekye serving as executive producers. Odanga’s Multan Production is the production company behind the project.
After its premiere on August 8, Tides will be screened at additional Century Cinemax venues throughout Nairobi.
