Private Project

CULTURE

In the bustling streets of Nairobi’s slums, where dreams are often overshadowed by harsh realities, Kofi, a young and passionate aspiring musician, fights to forge a path out of poverty. Balancing his creative ambition with the daily grind of working as a matatu tout, Kofi dreams of turning his freestyles into something more significant. However, life in the streets is unforgiving, and every step toward his goals is met with challenges.

Kofi’s closest allies include Blaze, the charismatic matatu driver, and Queen, an independent and fiery young woman who believes in Kofi’s talent. But standing in his way is Tony, Queen’s overprotective brother and a formidable figure in the slums. Tony’s disdain for Kofi fuels an intense rivalry that escalates when Queen begins to grow closer to Kofi. What begins as a small feud turns into a dangerous conflict, forcing Kofi to confront not only Tony’s wrath but also the violent underbelly of their shared community.

When Tony and his gang cross a line, stealing from and humiliating Kofi, the tension between the two men reaches a boiling point. Queen, caught between her love for her brother and her growing affection for Kofi, becomes the tragic centerpiece of their feud. As Kofi struggles to remain focused on his music, a devastating incident leaves Queen lifeless, pushing the rivalry into a deadly spiral.

Haunted by guilt, anger, and betrayal, Kofi is forced to face the consequences of the escalating violence. Tony, consumed by grief after learning of his sister’s death, exacts his vengeance on Kofi in a shocking act of rage. However, an unexpected revelation turns the narrative on its head, leaving Tony to grapple with the truth about Queen’s demise and the choices that led to it.

"Culture" is a raw and gripping story of ambition, love, and survival. Set against the backdrop of Nairobi’s vibrant matatu culture and the complexities of life in the slums, the film explores the fine line between dreams and reality, the sacrifices we make for those we love, and the destructive power of unresolved rivalries. It’s a tale of resilience and tragedy, where every decision comes with a price.

  • Lennie Nyabuto
    Director
  • Daniella Rono
    Writer
  • Lennie Nyabuto
    Writer
  • Adrian Anyanga
    Writer
  • Daniella Rono
    Producer
  • Festus Kirori
    Key Cast
    "Kofi"
  • Cheryl Korir
    Key Cast
    "Queen"
  • Adrian Anyanga
    Key Cast
    "Tony"
  • Jason Weke
    Assistant Director
  • Kylie Wangari
    Line Producer
  • Nyabuto Lennie
    Cinematographers
  • Kray Sheeva
    Cinematographers
  • Stephany Maluki
    Cinematographers
  • Lennie Nyabuto
    Video Editor
  • Jason Weke
    Script Supervisors
  • Adrian Anyanga
    Script Supervisors
  • Daniella Rono
    Production Designers
  • Jason Weke
    Production Designers
  • Lennie Nyabuto
    Production Designers
  • Daniella Rono
    Production managers/Coordinators
  • Liviah Kimathi
    Sound Engineer
  • Maina Kaina
    Lights
  • Lennie Nyabuto
    Lights
  • Daniella Rono
    Costume & Make up
  • Jojay Bless
    Music Producer
  • Nastie Nastie The Last Millenial 1996 (Album)
    Music by
  • Adrian Anyanga
    Location
  • Stray Music
    Location
  • Lennie Nyabuto
    Location
  • James Njoroge
    BTS
  • Project Type:
    Experimental, Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    26 minutes 18 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    December 18, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    400 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Kenya
  • Country of Filming:
    Kenya
  • Language:
    English, Swahili
  • Shooting Format:
    35mm
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Black & White and Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - KCA UNIVERSITY
Director Biography - Lennie Nyabuto

Nyabuto Lennie is a passionate student and freelance filmmaker dedicated to crafting compelling visual narratives. With a deep love for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Nyabuto Lennie seamlessly blends creativity with technical expertise to bring stories to life on screen.

Balancing the worlds of academia and professional filmmaking, Nyabuto Lennie has worked on various projects, from short films to commercial work, developing a diverse portfolio that showcases both artistic vision and industry know-how. As a freelance filmmaker, they collaborate with clients and fellow creatives to produce engaging content, constantly refining their craft and pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling.

Driven by a desire to create meaningful cinema, Nyabuto Lennie continues to explore new storytelling techniques, mastering the art of directing while carving a unique path in the film industry.

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Director Statement

Filmmaking, to me, is more than just a craft—it’s a language, a way to connect, challenge, and inspire. Every frame, every cut, and every performance is a piece of a larger puzzle that evokes emotion and sparks conversation. I am drawn to stories that explore the human experience, whether through raw realism, poetic visuals, or bold experimentation.

As both a student and a freelance filmmaker, I constantly seek to refine my voice, balancing technical precision with creative instinct. I believe in the power of collaboration, where each project becomes a shared vision shaped by the talents and perspectives of everyone involved.

My goal as a director is to create films that resonate—stories that stay with audiences long after the credits roll. I want to push boundaries, question norms, and tell stories that matter, whether through narrative fiction, documentary, or experimental cinema. Film is a mirror, a window, and a journey, and I am committed to exploring its endless possibilities.