Watch Softie

Softie is an incredibly powerful 2020 documentary that chronicles the journey of Kenyan activist and photojournalist Boniface Mwangi as he runs for political office in the country's highly contested 2017 election. Directed by Sam Soko, this gripping and deeply emotional film provides a rare glimpse into the struggle for social justice in Kenya, as well as the personal sacrifice and risks that are often taken by those who are dedicated to effecting change.

At the heart of Softie is Mwangi himself, whose infectious energy and unwavering commitment to his beliefs make him a captivating subject to follow. Born and raised in one of Nairobi's toughest neighborhoods, Mwangi made a name for himself as a brave and outspoken photographer who was unafraid to document the brutality of Kenya's police force and the corruption of its political leaders. As he became increasingly involved in activism and advocacy work, Mwangi decided to run for office himself, with the goal of challenging the status quo and pushing for a more equitable and just Kenya.

What follows is a tense and often heartbreaking portrait of Mwangi's campaign, as he faces harassment, intimidation, and violence from both the government and his opponents. Throughout the film, we see Mwangi struggle to balance his roles as a father, husband, activist, and now, politician. He is forced to make difficult decisions about how much personal safety he is willing to sacrifice for the sake of his cause, and the emotional toll of this constant pressure is palpable.

One of the most powerful elements of Softie is its unflinching look at the realities of political campaigning in Kenya. The country's 2017 election was hotly contested, and allegations of voter suppression, intimidation, and fraud ran rampant. Against this backdrop, Mwangi's campaign takes on a particular significance, as he tries to navigate the complex, corrupt, and often violent world of Kenyan politics.

However, Softie is also a deeply personal story, as we see the toll that Mwangi's activism takes on his family. His wife, Njeri Mwangi, is also an activist and plays a crucial role in his campaign, but we also see the strain that it puts on their relationship and their children. As the threats against Mwangi escalate, the family is forced to confront the possibility of his arrest or even death, and the emotional weight of this possibility is almost unbearable to watch.

Throughout it all, the film is incredibly well-crafted, with stunning cinematography and an evocative soundtrack that perfectly captures the tone and emotions of each scene. The pacing is expertly handled, with moments of high tension and drama punctuated by quieter, introspective moments that allow the audience to catch their breath and reflect.

Overall, Softie is a must-watch film that provides a rare and important window into the world of activism and political campaigning in Kenya. Boniface Mwangi is an inspiring subject, whose dedication and courage in the face of danger and adversity is truly awe-inspiring. This film is a testament to the power of grassroots activism and the importance of pushing for change, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Softie is a 2020 documentary. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 73.