Private Project

HURDLES OF HOPE

Ocen Daniel, a young boy living in a tough neighborhood in Uganda is driven by a fierce determination to save his family from starvation. When desperation forces him to steal, he discovers his true calling through a random COACH and savior. Inspired by the legendary John Akii Bua, Uganda's iconic athlete and world record holder in the 400m hurdles, Ocen transforms his life through unwavering determination and passion unlocking a brighter future for himself and his mother and breaking free from the shackles of poverty. His remarkable journey sparks a wave of inspiration, cementing John Akii Bua's enduring legacy in the hearts of a new generation.

  • Elly E. Debuni
    Director
  • Elly E. Debuni
    Writer
  • Joseph Jakuma
    Key Cast
    "Ocen"
  • Susan Katooko
    Key Cast
    "Mama Ocen"
    Crystal Countless Misfortunes, Lady Will You Marry Me, Gutujja, School Times and Olwatuuka(2024)
  • Yusuf Boxa Kaija
    Key Cast
    "Coach"
    27 Guns (2018), New Intentions (2016) and Kafa Coh (2022).
  • John Paul Mboira
    Director of Photography
    My Sister's Keeper (2022) Pieces of Me (2022), and Mukisa(2022)
  • Salma N. Bynes
    Assistant Director
    Mothers (2019), Cursed Bed (2014) and Present Past (2024)
  • Isa Bakara
    Sound Recordist
    The Last Shoemaker (2023)
  • Allan Samuel Mwanja
    Productions Manager
    The Last King of Scotland (2006), Kafa Coh (2022) and Prickly Roses (2020).
  • Adam Kalya
    Productions Design
  • Rahma Idriss
    Makeup and Hair
  • Elly E. Debuni
    Producer
  • Paul Wakooli
    Editor
  • John Paul Mboira
    Colorist
    My Sister's Keeper (2022) Pieces of Me (2022) and Mukisa (2022)
  • Joshua Olara
    Audio Post
  • Aaron Joshua Muwanguzi
    Props
  • Lawrence Tezikuba
    Gaffer
    My Sister's Keeper (2022) and Pieces of Me (2022)
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    15 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    October 30, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    5,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Uganda
  • Country of Filming:
    Uganda
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    35mm
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Opportunities Are Here Uganda
  • The Lift-Off Global First-Time Filmmaker Sessions
    London
    United Kingdom
    February 25, 2025
    International Premiere
    Official Selection
  • International Street Movies Festival
    Belgrade
    Serbia
    World Premiere
    Official Selection
  • Bokola Film Festival
    Harare
    Zimbabwe
    August 23, 2025
    International Premiere
    Official Selection
  • Kenya International Sports Film Festival
    Nairobi
    Kenya
    International Premiere
    Official Selection
  • YORA 2025 International Film Awards
    Kilifi
    Kenya
    International Premiere
    Finalist
  • Film AID Kenya Film Festival
    Nairobi
    Kenya
    International Premiere
    Honorable Mention
  • World Culture Festival Karachi
    Karachi
    Pakistan
    International Premiere
    Finalist
Director Biography - Elly E. Debuni

Elly E. Debuni is a filmmaker, writer, and poet from Lira City, Northern Uganda. With a passion for storytelling, Debuni brings a fresh perspective to cinema. He has honed his skills through intensive studies at CineArts Academy and Stage32 under Opportunities Are Here Uganda, a project by International Trade Center and European Union.

Debuni makes his directorial debut with HURDLES OF HOPE, a sports drama short film. His filmmaking style is influenced by local stories, art, and societal issues. He strives to create thought-provoking, visually stunning films that resonate with audiences.

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Director Statement

The man who does more that he's paid for will soon be paid for more than he does.