Kenyan cinema made a powerful statement at the 2025 Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), securing major wins and drawing continental attention to the nation’s thriving film industry. The event, which brought together filmmakers from across Africa and beyond, became a stage for Kenya’s bold storytelling, technical excellence, and creative vision.
At the heart of this success was Subterranea, a sci-fi psychological thriller that captivated audiences and critics alike. It took home the award for Best TV Drama Series in East Africa. The series follows eight individuals trapped in an underground bunker as part of a psychological experiment that takes a dark and unexpected turn. With a compelling storyline, rich character development, and powerful visuals, Subterranea stood out as one of the festival’s most engaging entries. The show’s success highlighted the strength of Kenya’s evolving genre filmmaking and its ability to tackle complex themes through local perspectives.
Another highlight from Kenya was The Chocolate Empire, a Showmax Original that stirred conversations with its bold narrative and standout performances. The story revolves around JB Mauzo, a disgraced tycoon attempting to rebuild his fortune while secretly managing an elite escort business. The character’s layers of ambition, shame, and redemption were brought to life with remarkable depth. The production was praised for its stylish execution, emotional intensity, and its portrayal of Nairobi’s vibrant and sometimes shadowy undercurrents.
Both series exemplify the growing sophistication in Kenyan productions, reflecting a new wave of creators pushing boundaries and breaking stereotypes. Rather than leaning on conventional story arcs, these shows embraced originality and risk, offering content that resonates with both local and international audiences.
The wins at ZIFF also signal the increasing competitiveness of Kenyan productions in the broader African cinematic landscape. With a rising number of original series and films being produced for platforms such as Showmax, Netflix, and other streaming services, Kenya’s film industry is gaining momentum and recognition far beyond its borders.
The Zanzibar International Film Festival itself continues to be one of the continent’s most prestigious platforms for showcasing cinematic talent. Founded in 1997, it remains a vital hub for cultural exchange, innovation, and celebration of African storytelling. This year’s edition once again demonstrated the richness and diversity of the continent’s film culture, and Kenya’s presence was among the most memorable.
With its latest achievements, Kenya is not only telling more stories but also telling them better — with style, substance, and the confidence of a country stepping into its role as a cinematic powerhouse in Africa. As the industry continues to grow, these victories at ZIFF serve as both a milestone and a launchpad for even greater creative accomplishments.
