Another award has just gone down in the Kenyan motion picture industry. I categorically use the words motion picture industry because there is an assertion that a Kenyan film industry is looming large, to counter the telebroadcast industry that has dominated the airwaves since pre-independent periods. These are entities that are virtually the same, but as far as possible different and unique in their own ways. Well, the awards was the infamous "Chaguo la teenez" which showcases the best of popular programming and actors mostly derived from the context of the teens, and maybe, just maybe the youth.
Its clear to note that yet again no feature film or even a Kenyan documentary features anywhere near being nominated for such an award show. This is mostly attributed to the fact the television preceded the emergence of the film industry, and that the lack of promotion of the Kenyan films in the television stations is but a factor to marvel at. Take for instance the rise of Hollywood, it was mostly fueled by the association of filmmakers and the television media owners. But this mentality seems like a thing of the past and no where near application in the Kenyan context. Another issue to note is that the awards if not sponsored by a media house, the idea might have generated from one of the media houses. This might be a factor that has lead to the locking out of potentially eligible Kenyan films.
Clear cut, the genres of categorizing the awards is wanting and i believe what is needed is an independent regulator that merges both the television industry and the film industry. With this in mind, the contents of motion picture will have a competitive edge both on television and film. And also, the rise of the industry will not only be a one sides affair, but an all round affair. But its good to note that the award system is cutting a niche for competitiveness in the motion picture industry, just what is needed in Kenyan television productions.
Pany
No comments:
Post a Comment