Watch Africa First: Volume One

Africa First: Volume One is a collection of five short films produced by a group of promising African filmmakers. The films were selected by a team of industry experts from a pool of over 200 submissions from across the continent. This dynamic collection offers a glimpse into the diversity of African stories, from coming of age tales to political commentaries to poignant journeys of self-discovery.

The first film, "Dina," directed by Ethiopian filmmaker Tsedenia Gebremarkos, tells the story of a young girl who discovers a newfound sense of empowerment through her love of soccer. The film is a charming coming of age story that deals with issues of gender inequality and cultural expectations. The naturalistic performances and stunning cinematography capture the beauty and complexity of Ethiopia's rural landscape.

Next up is "Kwaku Ananse," directed by Ghanaian filmmaker Akosua Adoma Owusu. The film cleverly blends traditional Ghanaian folklore with contemporary issues of family dynamics and generational conflict. The film's titular character, Kwaku Ananse, is a trickster spider who has woven his way into Ghanaian mythology. The film offers a fresh and unique perspective on the complexities of family relations and cultural heritage, and the vivid colors and eclectic soundtrack make this a visual and auditory feast.

"Jonah" follows the story of a young, mute boy who lives in a remote fishing village in Zanzibar. The film, directed by Tanzania's Kibwe Tavares, explores themes of loss and grief through the eyes of a child. Despite its melancholic subject matter, "Jonah" is a celebration of life and the bonds that bring us together. It features a stunning, evocative score and striking visual effects that transport the viewer to a world of magic and wonder.

South African filmmaker Matthew Jankes' "Mwansa the Great" is a heartwarming tale about a young boy who dreams of becoming a hero. The film explores themes of perseverance, friendship, and the power of imagination. Mwansa's journey takes him through the remote villages of Zambia, where he encounters various obstacles and colourful characters. The film is shot with a documentary-style realism that brings the Zambian countryside to life and captures the spirit of its people.

Lastly, "The Tunnel," directed by Jenna Bass of South Africa, is an evocative and powerful look at the plight of Zimbabwean immigrants living in South Africa. The film follows the story of a young couple, Sarah and Winston, who are desperately trying to make a better life for themselves in a new country. The film examines issues of xenophobia and racism through the lens of an intimate, moving love story. The performances are deeply affecting, and the stunning cinematography captures the raw beauty and harsh realities of life in South Africa.

Overall, Africa First: Volume One is an eclectic, dynamic collection of short films that showcase the talent and diversity of African filmmaking. The films are all of a high calibre, and each one offers its own unique perspective on the human experience. The themes of the films are universal, and they all offer a glimpse into the complexities and richness of African cultural heritage. Africa First: Volume One is an excellent showcase of promising African talent, and a must-see for anyone interested in cinema from the continent.

Africa First: Volume One is a drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.