ACT OF LOVE, The Must-See Film Breaking The Silence On Motherhood’s Hidden Struggles

A Riveting Film That Sheds Light On Post-Partum Depression And Maternal Mental Health

On August 15th, 2024, the powerful short film “ACT OF LOVE” premiered at UNSEEN Nairobi in Kilimani, a must-see event organized by Mental 360 as part of their lead-up to the 2024 Cradle Arts Festival. With a stunning array of accolades under its belt; 18 festival selections, 24 nominations, and 10 awards within just 11 months, this film is not just a cinematic achievement; it’s a vital conversation starter about a deeply pressing issue: Post-Partum Depression (PPD).

“ACT OF LOVE,” inspired by the true story of writer Shelly Gitonga, delves into the raw, often unspoken realities of motherhood. The film follows Juliana, a young mother portrayed by Mwixx Mutinda, as she battles the harrowing effects of PPD while trying to navigate the complexities of life in Nairobi. Juliana’s story is a poignant portrayal of a mother’s struggle to maintain her sanity as her world unravels in her pursuit of a livelihood. The narrative is not just a story but a mirror to society, reflecting the often overlooked and stigmatized challenges faced by mothers.

The film’s producer, Shirleen Wangari of Blackwell Films, emphasizes the importance of this narrative. In Kenya, PPD affects 11-13% of mothers, a figure that’s even higher across Africa, where 10-32% of women suffer from this condition. “ACT OF LOVE” bravely breaks the silence surrounding PPD, raising awareness about its impact on mothers, newborns, families, and communities at large. This condition, if left unaddressed, can lead to severe consequences such as post-partum psychosis, suicide, or even infanticide, making the film’s message all the more crucial.

Since its premiere in October 2023, “ACT OF LOVE” has garnered numerous awards, including Best Lighting, Best Editing, and Best Sound Design at the 13th KALASHA International Film & TV Awards in Kenya, and the Nile Grand Prize for Best Short Film at the 13th Luxor African Film Festival in Egypt. These accolades underscore the film’s exceptional quality and the resonance of its message. The film has also been recognized at prestigious festivals across the globe, from the Mombasa International Film Festival to the Hollywood African Cinema Connection Film Festival in the U.S., further highlighting its universal appeal and the urgent need for its message to be heard worldwide.

YAKWETU™ CEO Trushna Buddhdev-Patel expressed immense pride in the cast and crew, noting that “ACT OF LOVE” is now available for licensing across various platforms, ensuring that this important film reaches a wide audience. The film’s distribution extends beyond conventional theaters, with special screenings planned for underserved communities, women, and healthcare workers across Kenya and Africa, aiming to spark conversations and actions that support maternal mental health.

Impact Producer Chloe Genga of LightBox Africa is committed to continuing these conversations, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in furthering the film’s impact. The team behind “ACT OF LOVE” is not just telling a story; they are driving a movement, one that seeks to break the silence and stigma surrounding PPD and maternal mental health in Africa.

Meet the Crew:

As you read this, the film has already touched many lives since its screening yesterday. But the conversation doesn’t end here, it starts now. If you haven’t seen “ACT OF LOVE” yet, don’t miss the chance to witness this extraordinary film. It’s not just a film; it’s a call to action for all of us to support mothers and ensure that their voices are heard, their struggles acknowledged, and their mental health prioritized.

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