Kenyan films stole the spotlight at the 2025 Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), earning major accolades in a display of the platform’s growing dominance in African storytelling.
The prestigious festival brought together filmmakers from across the continent and beyond to celebrate excellence in cinema. This year, Kenya stood out with multiple wins, including Best TV Drama Series in East Africa for the acclaimed sci-fi thriller Subterranea.
Directed by Likarion Wainaina and written by Brian Munene, Subterranea follows eight participants confined in an underground bunker as part of a psychological experiment gone awry. Its gripping storyline and standout performances impressed both audiences and the jury.
“This award is a testament to the passion, grit, and creativity of the entire Subterranea team,” said producer Brian Munene. “From our incredible cast to our visionary crew, everyone gave their all to bring this bold, original story to life. We are deeply honoured to be recognised at ZIFF and hope this win will inspire even more daring, authentic African storytelling.”
Another Showmax Original, The Chocolate Empire, also made waves at the festival. Veteran actor Jimmy Gathu received praise for his lead role as JB Mauzo: a disgraced tycoon attempting to reclaim his legacy while secretly running an elite escort service.
Director and producer Grace Kahaki lauded the win: “Jimmy Gathu’s performance as JB Mauzo embodies the complexity and nuance we wanted to explore in the show. This recognition at ZIFF is a win not just for him, but for the entire cast and crew. We are proud to showcase stories that highlight Nairobi’s vibrancy and the diverse talents of our region.”
Founded in 1997, the Zanzibar International Film Festival remains one of Africa’s leading cultural events, promoting cross-cultural dialogue and celebrating cinematic excellence. This year’s edition proved once again that African content, especially from Kenya is more than ready for the global stage.
by queen serem
