Lukoma, Polly Kamukama win big at Pearl Film Festival
The biggest winner of the night was Makerere University film Lecturer Polly Kamukama, whose film “Unheard” won six awards.
Actor Arthur Sewanyana of Damalie Season 2 with his award. (Credit: John Musoke)
Ugandan film makers were on Saturday recognised at the Pearl International film awards that took place at Theatre Labonita.
The event hosted by Ebonies actress Fauzia Nakiboneka and Simon Base Kalema saw several Ugandan filmmakers, producers, and actresses rewarded for their contribution to the growth of the film industry in Uganda.
The biggest winner of the night was Makerere University film Lecturer Polly Kamukama, whose film “Unheard” won six awards.
The best production design award was individually given to Francis Lubanjuma, and the best director of photography was Joseph Kitshakyasi, while Polly Kamukama himself got the award for best screenplay.
Other winners were Kazi Kasozi (best original sound score) and Joseph Kenneth Ssebaggala (best director).
“Unheard” is a 2023 Ugandan film about a young widow in a southwestern village who defies traditional norms to secure her family's future by creating a better life for her child.
Brian Mulondo (L) handing over an award to Polly Kamukama at the event. (Credit: John Musoke)
The movie was funded by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) through their Content Development Support Programme.
The award for the best TV series was given to ‘Damalie’ Season 2.
The award for Best Actress was given to Catherine Mbabazi, while Hellen Lukoma received the award for Best Supporting Actress. The best short film was “Sweet Heist.”
Best documentary “Tuko Pamoja Buganda”, while the best animation was “Amara and the spirit of Namaganda”. Prince Joe Nakibinge won the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Speaking at the event, Ebonies' director, Dr. Sam Bagenda, commended organisers, “Such platforms are good because they promote creativity and talent within our country,” he said.