Movie Review: Speaking to the deaf

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Movie: Speak

Director: Paul Ssebata

Review by Janan Kisitu

Speak stands out as a promising addition to Ugandan cinema, featuring veteran actor Michael Wawuyo Sr. in a central role. Known for his commanding presence and deep emotional range, Wawuyo has been a cornerstone of Ugandan film and theatre for decades, and his involvement in this production raises the bar for audience expectations. While full plot details remain under wraps, Speak is shaping up to be a gripping and thought-provoking narrative. 

Log line

Born with the gift of hearing in a deaf village, a young girl must navigate treacherous landscapes and battle ruthless enemies to save her family and community.

In a post-apocalyptic world, a small village is plagued by a mysterious virus that renders its survivors deaf. Centuries later, a young girl named Akia (Seline Audo) is born with the extraordinary ability to hear and speak. Feared and ostracized by her community, Akia embarks on a perilous journey to uncover the truth about her past and the sinister forces exploiting her village. With her family's safety at stake, Akia must summon all her strength and determination to defeat the ruthless Baron (Wawuyo) and his minions in a final, brutal showdown.

The film delves into themes of resilience, human connection, and the power of unspoken truths, all set against a vividly depicted Ugandan backdrop. Director Sebatta, who is known for his compelling storytelling and ability to draw raw performances from his cast, appears to have crafted a piece that merges social commentary with personal drama. This approach is particularly significant for Ugandan cinema, which has been gaining momentum in recent years for its locally grounded stories.

Speak comes at a time when Ugandan cinema is expanding its reach, with films gaining recognition at regional and international festivals. Sebatta's direction, paired with Wawuyo's performance, is likely to propel the film to critical acclaim. This collaboration underscores the increasing importance of producing high quality narratives that reflect Uganda’s rich cultural and social tapestry.

Michael Wawuyo in Speak. (Courtesy)

Films like "Speak" represent a vital shift in African cinema: moving away from stereotypes and toward stories that are deeply rooted in local realities. As Ugandan filmmakers continue to establish their voice on the global stage, projects like this remind us of the talent and stories waiting to be discovered.

The Cast

The talented cast of Speak brings this powerful story to life with a range of captivating performances. Selin Audo takes on the role of Akia, delivering a poignant portrayal of a resilient young woman. Having previously starred in Power of Legacy, Audo brings depth and authenticity to her character. 

Opposite her is Ugandan film icon Michael Wawuyo Snr, who plays the ruthless Baron who’s the villain known for his role in The Last King of Scotland. Wawuyo's commanding presence adds a layer of intensity to the story.

Doreck Ankunda offers a standout performance, drawing from her personal experiences as a deaf individual to bring authenticity and emotional resonance to her role. Ankunda's talent has been recognized internationally, earning her the Best Actress award at the 2024 Bayelsa International Film Festival. Young Achan Keisha also impresses as a younger version of Akia, skillfully enriching the narrative with her layered portrayal.

Gregg Salzman, a Jewish-American actor, plays Kakulu, Akia's complex and demanding boss. Salzman’s nuanced performance adds depth and gravity to his character, highlighting the emotional stakes of the story. The film also features a remarkable ensemble of deaf actors whose talents shine throughout the production.

To enhance the cinematic experience, Speak includes over 200 extras, contributing to the film’s epic scale and grandeur. With such a strong and diverse cast, the film promises to be a groundbreaking addition to Ugandan cinema.

The film was shot in different districts namely; Serere, Jinja and Wakiso.