| The Bad Mexican | |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Loukman Ali |
| Written by | Loukman Ali |
| Starring | Adnan Senkumba, Joel Okuyo Atiku, Brommie Abrahamz, Toni Darkmit |
Release date |
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Running time | 15 minutes |
| Country | Uganda |
| Languages | English, Luganda, Lugbara |
The Bad Mexican is a 2017 Ugandan short comedy film written and directed by Loukman Ali. [1] It stars Adnan Senkumba as Kenneth Senkumba, with Joel Okuyo Atiku as Moses, Brommie Abrahamz and Toni Darkmit in supporting roles. The film features dialogue in English, Luganda, and Lugbara, with captions provided. Set in Kampala, the film humorously explores themes of ambition, debt, and misadventure, opening with the caption: "Unfortunately this is a true story..." followed by shots of Kampala's skyline. [2] [3] [4] [5]
Kenneth Senkumba, a young Ugandan writer, dreams of submitting his script, also titled The Bad Mexican, to an influential producer at the Masters Music office to secure funds to pay off a $300 debt to a gangster loan shark named Moses. [5] Despite paying Moses for eight months, the debt continues to accumulate. While driving to deliver his script, Kenneth is warned by a friend that Moses is looking for him and has his phone number, prompting Kenneth to contemplate drastic measures to avoid Moses' wrath. [5]
Advised by a friend, Kenneth attempts to order clothes from a company called Trendz, which delivers via GPS. Due to a glitch in their app, a motorcycle courier delivers a grey French cap (nkofira) worth 20,000 UgX instead of the expected clothing. Disappointed, Kenneth pays the courier, a young boy who had earlier splashed him with puddle water, for his multi-coloured "ugly trousers". The boy leaves happily in his boxer shorts with cash in hand. [5] After submitting his script in a khaki envelope, a receptionist gives Kenneth a number, instructing him not to call but to wait for a callback if selected. The next day, Moses, wielding a bat and accompanied by three goons, searches for Kenneth at his apartment block, escalating the stakes of Kenneth's predicament. [5] [6]
Directed and written by Loukman Ali, The Bad Mexican is a low-budget production that reflects the growing creativity of Uganda's film industry, often referred to as Ugawood. The film uses a mix of English, Luganda, and Lugbara to capture the linguistic diversity of Kampala, with captions ensuring accessibility. [5] The comedic tone draws from everyday Ugandan experiences, with Ali's direction emphasizing situational humor and local cultural references. [7]
The Bad Mexican premiered in 2017 and was screened at several film festivals, including the Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF) and the Ngalabi Short Film Festival, where it was well-received for its humor and relatable portrayal of youth unemployment and ambition. [5] [8] The film's success at festivals highlighted its appeal within the growing Ugandan film industry. [7] [9]
The Bad Mexican contributed to the visibility of Uganda’s burgeoning film industry, showcasing the potential of low-budget comedies to resonate with both local and international audiences. [7] Unlike the action-heavy films of Wakaliwood, The Bad Mexican stands out for its focus on comedic narrative and urban life, reflecting the challenges faced by young Ugandans. [7]