Kenyan cinema-goers are in for a gripping experience as Over the Bridge, a celebrated Nigerian psychological thriller, makes its theatrical debut in Nairobi on the 6th of June.
The film’s local release is powered by Screen Connect, a groundbreaking pan-African film distribution initiative on a mission to transform the way African stories reach African audiences.
Launched in 2024 under the Some Fine Day Pix and GIZ Moving Pictures umbrella, Screen Connect is working to close long-standing distribution gaps that have limited access to African films across the continent. From Kigali to Nairobi, Lagos to Johannesburg, the initiative is making it easier for audiences to enjoy the richness of African storytelling on the big screen.
“It’s disheartening that despite the global appetite for African stories, many African viewers still struggle to watch films from neighboring countries,” says Cassandra Onwualu, Nigerian producer and Screen Connect co-founder. “We want Kenyan audiences to access stellar Nigerian productions—and vice versa. Screen Connect is here to build those bridges, promote local talent, and contribute meaningfully to the African film industry’s growth.”
Onwualu co-founded the initiative alongside Marete Selvin (Kenya) and Mizero Kabano Yannick (Rwanda). Over the Bridge marks the trio’s first theatrical release, with more cinematic gems slated for rollout in other regions soon.
Directed by Tolu Ajayi—best known for MTV Shuga Naija and Diiche on Showmax—Over the Bridge centers on Folarin, a successful investment banker living what appears to be a perfect life. But when a major government project he oversees spirals out of control, Folarin finds himself unraveling, forced to confront deep personal and professional truths.
“This film is a modern parable,” says Ajayi. “From tranquil scenes on a fisherman’s boat to the ruthless maneuverings in Nigeria’s corporate boardrooms, the story captures the high price of success. My own early experiences during the Lagos financial boom of the 1990s inspired this narrative—observing the titans of industry and the toll their power takes.”
The film stars a stellar ensemble cast including Ozzy Agu (Castle & Castle), Segilola Ogidan (A Naija Christmas), Joke Silva and Deyemi Okanlawon (Blood Sisters), Chimezie Imo (Breath of Life), and Paul Adam (La Femme Anjola).
Over the Bridge earned 12 nominations at the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), including Best Director, Best Movie, and Best Editing. It took home awards for Best Cinematography and Best Production Design.
ALSO READ:
Kenyan audiences can catch the film at Century Cinemax Junction, Garden City, and Two Rivers from 6 June through the end of the month. With its sharp visuals, thought-provoking storyline, and a haunting exploration of power and personal cost, Over the Bridge promises to be one of the year’s most unforgettable cinematic journeys.
