Can Congo Build Its Own Film Industry?

On Sunday 18 October, the Mwepesi English Club went to the cinema... in English! Our topic: "Nollywood did it: can Congo build its own film industry?"

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT In the 1990s, very few people outside Nigeria watched Nigerian films. Today, Nollywood is famous across Africa and around the world. It started with simple films made with small cameras and very little money. But the stories were close to people's real lives, and family drama and comedy became the most popular genre.

The DRC also has great stories to tell: popular theatre on TV, music loved everywhere, and many young people who make short videos on YouTube and TikTok. But a good film needs more than talent. A screenwriter must write a strong script, and a producer must find the money and the equipment. Could Kolwezi, with its mines, markets and rich cultures, tell stories that influence young people across Africa? Some people say yes. Others point to the lack of cinemas, money and electricity.

WORDS WE LEARNED • film-maker: a person who makes films • genre: a type of film, music or art, such as comedy or action • screenwriter: a person who writes the words actors speak • producer: the person in charge of the money and the organisation of a film • influence: to change the way someone thinks or behaves • achieve fame: to become well known, often after working hard for a long time • critic: a person who writes about a film, book or play and says what they think of it

THE DEBATE Motion: "Congo can build a film industry as strong as Nollywood." • Is talent enough, or does a film industry first need money and support from the government? • Should Congolese films be made in Lingala, Swahili, French or English to reach more people? • Can phones and YouTube replace cinemas and big studios?

If you made a film about Kolwezi, what would the story be? Come and tell us at the Club.

Join us! The Club meets every Sunday from 4 pm to 6 pm (16h–18h) at CS Les Bourgeons, 4th Avenue (Lufira), Biashara, Kolwezi. It's free and open to all levels, from A2 to C2. Call or WhatsApp: +243 970 400 321

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