Movie Review: Boundaries of Organ Trafficking
The film follows a retired surgeon who, in a desperate bid to save his ailing sister, confronts his own moral boundaries and a haunting past.
Movie Review: Boundaries of Organ Trafficking
NewVision Reporter
@NewVision
Zion Kente as Salwa
Movie Review
Boundaries of Organ Trafficking
Film: Boundary Mwisho
Review by Janan Kisitu
KAMPALA - Boundary Mwisho, directed by Ugandan filmmaker Hakim Zziwa, is a gripping 22-minute drama that delves into the dark world of illegal organ trafficking.
The film follows a retired surgeon who, in a desperate bid to save his ailing sister, confronts his own moral boundaries and a haunting past.
Zziwa, known for his dynamic storytelling and background in dance, brings a unique visual flair to the film. His previous works, such as Building 62, which won Best Short Film at the 2nd IKON Awards in 2024, and The Dark One, a finalist at the Afrykamera Film Festival in Poland, showcase his versatility and commitment to shedding light on pressing societal issues.
In Boundary Mwisho, Zziwa collaborates with a talented cast, including Maureen 'Mona' Nankya, Allan Katongole as Mapendo, Abdul Kinyenya as Lumu, Hussein Marinjan as the doctor, Rosemary Atim as Mai, Zion Kente as Salwa , and Mark Agume as Kenzo. Many of these actors have backgrounds in dance, reflecting Zziwa's own roots and adding a distinct physicality to their performances.
The narrative centers on the surgeon's ethical dilemma: choosing between fulfilling a dangerous obligation in the organ black market or using the opportunity to save his sister's life. This internal conflict propels the story, leading to intense action sequences and a suspenseful exploration of morality.
While the film effectively highlights the issue of organ trafficking without scooping who the beneficiaries are, questions arise regarding the surgeon's involvement in illicit activities and the timing of his sister's medical needs.
These aspects suggest that Boundary Mwisho might serve as a compelling pitch for a more extensive project, potentially expanding into a feature film or series.
Boundary Mwisho is a short film that underscores Zziwa's growing influence in Ugandan cinema. His adept direction and the cast's strong performances make it a noteworthy addition to the discourse on ethical decision-making in dire circumstances.
The film was shot in Kampala and neighbouring suburbs.