In Kenya, discussing mental health was once considered almost taboo. As someone living with bipolar disorder and ADHD, I often struggled to express myself without being confined to a label, as mental health issues were frequently dismissed as 'first world problems.' However, conversations began to shift when the older generation's struggles with conditions like schizophrenia and dementia became more visible and widely discussed.
My Samuel is a deeply personal story that centers on dementia—an issue close to my heart, as many of my friends have recently begun to speak about their parents' experiences with dementia and schizophrenia. This film is a dedication to all the lives lost and those affected by these conditions, capturing the emotional and psychological toll they impose on families and communities. Through My Samuel, I hope to foster understanding and empathy for those navigating the complexities of mental health.
Synopsis
My Samuel is a touching exploration of love, memory, and the resilience of the human spirit. The film follows Wanjiku, a 68-year-old woman facing the challenges of dementia while coping with the recent loss of her beloved husband, Samuel.
Set against the backdrop of Wanjiku's deteriorating mental state, My Samuel delves into the profound impact of love and the enduring legacy it leaves behind. Through a series of poignant moments Wanjiku and Maina navigate the bittersweet journey of reminiscence, finding solace in the cherished moments they shared as a family. My Samuel celebrates the beauty of memory, the strength of familial bonds, and the timeless legacy of love that continues to resonate long after loved ones have passed.
The making of this film was mostly fun, apart from when our two onions, Peris and Mugo, gave heartbreaking eulogies. Kidawa Tutu, a talented musician, had to sing Cha Kutumaini and Bwana yu sehemu yangu over and over again, eventually losing her voice.
We had a mini photoshoot for the images we would use as props during the shoot, using Mugo to represent his father and Peris to depict her younger self because "black don't crack," and she still passes for a 20-year-old. The images needed to reflect her and her Samuel in the 70s, and the photoshoot was so crazy and fun—even the black mamba bicycle had to make an appearance.
My Samuel was recently selected to participate in the Lift-Off Sessions, where it was screened to a global audience.
Bwana yu Sehemu Yangu performed by Kidawa Tutu
