Once Upon a Time in Uganda

A trailer for Isaac Nabwana's homemade action movie, sends film buff Alan Hofmanis to Wakaliwood in Uganda. He sees global potential in Isaacs' unique films, which are bursting with creative energy. But the road there turns out to be a long one.

Welcome to Wakaliwood! In the slums outside of Uganda's capital, Isaac Nabwana has built an industri. Inspired by Rambo and Chuck Norris, he produces action movies with simple special effects. In 2012, film nerd Alan Hofmanis came over the trailer for Who Killed Captain Alex. He then decides to move at once to Wakaliwood, where he becomes an action star and their missionary to the world.

Cathryne Czubek has followed Isaac and Alan over several years, and made a love letter to an industry full of creative joy. But there are plenty of challenges. In a society divided by class, it's hard to be taken seriously when you're from the slum. Despite their viral fame, getting a global audience also proves to be hard work. Follow Isaac and Alan on their journey to become the Beatles of exploding heads.

Kristoffer Holen

Director

Cathryne Czubek is a documentary film maker and producer based in New York. Her films often tackle women's issues. A Girl and a Gun (2013) was screened at DOC NY. The documentary show Screw You Cancer (2013) was the first digital release to win a Television Academy Honor. Once Upon a Time in Uganda premiered at SXSW 2022.

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